Private Practice during Duty Hours: Principal GMC Handwara warns doctors of termination

Srinagar: Taking strict action against government doctors practising privately, Professor Dr Khurshid Ahmad Wani, the recently appointed Principal of Government Medical College Handwara, has issued a stern warning to all doctors of its Associated Hospitals of immediate termination without any prior notice if they are found practising during working hours. 

An order issued by him in this regard mentioned, “It is for the information of all the faculty/doctors of GMC Handwara and its associated hospitals that if any of them are found practising privately during working hours, he/she will be terminated immediately without any prior notice.”

Additionally, Dr Khurshid mentioned a specific time frame for doctors to follow the directive of not engaging in private practice, which is from 9 am to 5 pm. This bold move was made in response to complaints about doctors practising privately during their official working hours, leading to inconvenience for their patients. Hence, this move is expected to bring relief to the patients. 

Also read- GMC Anantnag, Handwara Gets New Principals

Medical Dialogues had recently reported that the Health and Medical Education Department in Jammu and Kashmir made Dr Khurshid Wani the new Principal of Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara. Dr Khurshid Wani was appointed as Principal of Government Medical College Handwara after Dr Iffat Hassan was relieved from the post of principal.

Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Dr Khurshid Ahmad Wani said, "The motive behind this order is to provide better healthcare facilities to the people of the district. It is worth noting that frequent complaints of doctors practising privately during official hours were being reported from the associated hospital of GMC Handwara. With this order, the people of Kupwara district hope to receive better facilities."

Dr Wani has further emphasized that his main focus will be on academics and enhancing healthcare facilities. Additionally, he has instructed the hospital administration to regularly monitor the attendance of paramedical staff.

Also read- MP: 18 Government Medical Colleges Get New Dean