Goa Medical College Introduces SOPs for Medico-Legal Procedures

Goa: In a move aimed at improving transparency and efficiency in medico-legal services, the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology at Goa Medical College (GMC) has officially introduced a comprehensive set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The newly established SOPs cover a wide range of processes, including medico-legal autopsies, morgue preservation, embalming, and the provision of free hearse van services, ensuring accountability across all medico-legal services. Also Read: Goa Medical College Gets Approval to hike 19 seats across 5 MD, MS specialities They also laid down detailed guidelines for police officers, medical staff, and families regarding documentation, timelines, and protocols for autopsy, preservation, and handing over of bodies, reports the Digital Goa. The notification also introduces stricter security measures to ensure dignity and confidentiality during medico-legal processes. Unauthorized entry into the department has been restricted, and videography or photography within the premises is strictly prohibited. These measures aim to uphold privacy and prevent the circulation of sensitive images or information. In a related development, a parallel initiative was announced in June by Dr. S. Bandekar, the Dean of Goa Medical College (GMC). He stated that strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) would soon be introduced in the casualty department. This decision, made in consultation with the medical superintendent and heads of all departments, aims to streamline operations and ensure the department is used exclusively for emergency cases, reports TOI. Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that to enhance the healthcare services on par with international standards, the Goa government has decided to constitute an advisory board of experts from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Union Government, and specialists from across the country. This board will monitor the functioning of the Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).