Karnataka Minister Advocates AI Integration for Women's Safety in Healthcare

Karnataka's minister, Sharan Prakash Patil, recommends AI technology in security systems to protect women healthcare workers. Chairing a high-level meeting, Patil emphasized feedback from female professionals and stakeholders. He proposed comprehensive security audits, background checks, and 24/7 canteen facilities. Implementation will be overseen by a State Secretariat panel.

Karnataka's minister for Medical Education & Skill Development, Sharan Prakash Patil, on Friday, advocated the integration of AI technology into security systems to ensure the safety of women healthcare personnel across the state, according to an official release.

The minister led a high-level meeting at Vikasa Soudha to discuss strengthening security at medical colleges, hospitals, and hostels. This discussion follows a preceding review meeting focused on assessing current security measures and exploring potential enhancements.

During the meeting, Patil stressed the necessity of incorporating feedback from women healthcare professionals and other stakeholders. He urged directors of medical institutions to collect written feedback and take concrete steps to implement necessary measures. Furthermore, Patil recommended forming a security audit committee to perform monthly reviews of safety protocols and insisted on thorough background checks for all security personnel.

To enhance safety, Patil proposed that 24/7 canteen facilities be established so that female healthcare staff need not leave the premises unexpectedly. Additionally, a panel at the State Secretariat will be created to oversee these measures' implementation.

B L Sujatha Rathod, Director of Medical Education, presented a detailed account of current security initiatives at the meeting attended by senior officials including Mohammad Mohsin, Principal Secretary of Medical Education, Mission Director of National Health Mission Y Naveen Bhat, and Joint Secretary Venkateshmurthy.

(With inputs from agencies.)