Punjab to Train Medical Officers to address Psychiatrists Shortage at OOAT Clinics

In response to a severe shortage of psychiatrists across Punjab, the state health department has announced a major policy shift- Medical Officers (MOs) in charge of Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment (OOAT) clinics will now be trained to take on key responsibilities traditionally handled by psychiatrists. This strategic move aims to ensure the smooth functioning of the state’s OOAT clinics, which play a crucial role in addressing opioid addiction.

OOAT clinics have long depended on psychiatrists for vital functions. Currently, Punjab has only 45 psychiatrists to manage a staggering 542 OOAT centres, leaving several districts without a single psychiatrist. These specialists are essential in managing opioid addiction, including monitoring and adjusting dosages, authorising new patient registrations, and approving take-home medication.

Medical Dialogues had previously reported that to provide health care services to drug addicts, the Punjab government will set up Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment (OOAT) clinics in the state's Community Health Centres (CHC), Health and Family Welfare Minister Brahm Mohindra said.