The Ganjam district administration took action after finding the medical officer guilty of negligence in duty. An inquiry is expected to be conducted soon to further investigate the matter.
Meanwhile, the doctor has been attached to the district health office in Berhampur.
Also read- Govt doctor suspended after being found absent from duty
The action comes after Sorada MLA Nilamani Bisoyi visited the CHC in November, during which he found a health worker carrying out the duties of the medical officer. On inquiry, the MLA learnt that Dr *** was not on duty and was reportedly found sleeping in his quarters.
The MLA raised the issue with the Health Minister, the Ganjam Collector, and the Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO), demanding strict action against the doctor for being absent during working hours.
Following this, CDMO Dr Sushant Nayak asked Bhanjanagar Sub-Divisional Medical Officer Dr Sitanshu Sekhar Satpathy to conduct an inquiry. Based on the inquiry report, the CDMO suspended the doctor and fixed his headquarters at the district health office in Berhampur.
Speaking to TNIE, Bisoyi said, "Such conduct from a highly paid doctor was unacceptable. We would ensure the appointment of another doctor at the CHC."
Medical Dialogues had previously reported that the Odisha Health Department issued show-cause notices to 244 government doctors who have been missing from duty for a long time. These doctors, posted at various government hospitals and health centres, reportedly not turned up for work in months or even years without official leave.
At first, the government named 33 doctors who have been missing since 2010, issuing a 15-day notice to them for explanation. The subsequent phase disclosed a further 211 names of doctors who have been absent for extended periods.
Also read- Odisha Govt issues show-cause notices to 244 doctors over prolonged absence
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.