What Regulations to be followed by below 20 bed small hospitals in AP?

 The key regulations for small hospitals (below 20 beds) as stipulated under the Andhra Pradesh Allopathic Private Medical Care Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act and its amendments:

  1. General Regulations for Small Hospitals (<20 Beds) 

- Registration Requirement:

  - Mandatory registration with the District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) before commencement. 

  - Renewal required every 5 years. 

 -2. Infrastructure & Facilities:

  - Minimum space per bed: 100 sq. ft. (excluding corridors and utility areas). 

  - Separate OPD, IPD, pharmacy, and nursing station. 

  - Basic sanitation, ventilation, and lighting as per prescribed standards. 

  - Emergency medical equipment (e.g., oxygen, IV fluids, resuscitation kit). 

 - 3. Staffing Requirements:

  - A registered medical practitioner (RMP) must be available during operational hours. 

  - At least one qualified nurse for every 10 beds. 

  - Support staff (attendants, cleaners) as per patient load. 

 - 4. Medical Records & Documentation:

  - Maintenance of patient records for at least 5 years. 

  - Prescriptions must follow standard medical protocols. 

  - Display of fee structure, services, and doctor qualifications prominently. 

 - 5. Emergency & Referral Services:

  - Basic emergency care must be provided. 

  - Referral arrangements with higher centers if critical care is unavailable. 

 - 6. Drugs & Pharmacy Compliance:

  - Only licensed pharmacists can dispense medicines. 

  - Storage of drugs as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. 

 - 7. Bio-Medical Waste Management:

  - Compliance with Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016. 

  - Proper segregation, disposal, and tie-up with authorized waste handlers. 

 -8. Fire & Safety Compliance:

  - Basic fire extinguishers and emergency exits (if applicable)*. 

  - Compliance with local municipal safety norms. 

 - 9. Display of Information:

  - The registration certificate must be displayed. 

  - 24/7 contact details of the managing authority. 

 - Penalties for Non-Compliance:

  - Fines, suspension, or cancellation of registration for violations. 

  - Legal action for unauthorized operation or malpractice. 

As per the fire safety act of AP:  Hospitals constructed on plots below 500 sq. yds. plot area need not apply for fire NOC. Hospitals running in ground + 1st floor also need not apply for a fire NOC.

But due to the amendment of the APAPMC act through the GO NO.148 ([G.O.Ms.No.148, Health, Medical and Family Welfare (D2), 3rd December, 2021.]), all hospitals, even clinics, shall procure fire NOC.