Yerawada Mental Hospital Proposes ICU and OT for Patients

The Regional Mental Hospital (RMH) in Yerawada is taking a significant step towards improving patient care by proposing the establishment of a dedicated intensive care unit (ICU) and operation theatre (OT) on its premises. This initiative marks a first for a state-run psychiatric facility in the region and is aimed at addressing medical emergencies among its patients.

Currently, the RMH has a sanctioned capacity of 2,540 beds but houses approximately 1,100 to 1,200 patients who require psychiatric treatment. Many of these individuals also face additional health challenges, including orthopaedic issues, chronic diseases, and injuries from accidents. Unfortunately, the hospital lacks the necessary medical infrastructure to manage these conditions effectively on-site.

Patients with severe medical needs are often referred to nearby facilities, such as the Aundh District Hospital or Sassoon General Hospital, for emergency treatment. This referral process can lead to delays due to various factors, including transportation difficulties and the unavailability of beds or oxygen support. Dr. Shrinivas Kolod, the medical superintendent of RMH, emphasized that these delays can jeopardize the health of critically ill patients, stating, “The referral process often leads to delays… which can put critical patients at serious risk.”

Establishing an ICU and OT on-site aims to alleviate these challenges. The RMH administration submitted a request for approval on January 20, 2026, for a 10-bed ICU and a fully equipped OT, which would allow for timely medical interventions. Dr. Kolod explained that the current system diverts healthcare personnel from routine patient care, thereby stretching the hospital’s limited resources.

The proposed facilities would ensure that patients receive immediate treatment without the risk of delays associated with referrals. A senior official, who requested anonymity, noted that having critical care available on campus would significantly improve nursing and post-operative care for patients.

Officials indicate that psychiatric hospitals often serve vulnerable populations with complex medical needs that have been overlooked for too long. By integrating critical care services within the RMH, the hospital aims to provide a more holistic approach to treatment, enhancing the dignity and well-being of its patients.

The establishment of an ICU and OT at the RMH represents a pivotal development in mental health care, underscoring the importance of timely and comprehensive medical attention for individuals with psychiatric conditions. As the proposal awaits approval, the potential for improved patient outcomes remains a hopeful prospect for the facility and its residents.