Private Practice: GMC Manjeri Assistant professor suspended, enquiry initiated

Malappuram: An order of suspension has been issued for an assistant professor at Government Medical College Manjeri for allegedly practising in a private hospital despite being a government employee. 

The professor was caught red-handed by the Kerala Vigilance department following an enquiry conducted at the private hospital.

The vigilance officials received complaints for many days about the illegal private practice of the doctor. The complaint is that he has been treating patients for a long time in violation of the rule that doctors of government medical colleges should not do private practice. Therefore, the officials decided to visit the private hospital in Tirur Poongotukulam for confirmation.

Also read- Punjab: Govt Doctors Continue To Indulge In Private Practice Despite Ban

When the officials reached the private hospital, they found the doctor examining the patients and were caught red-handed by the team. The vigilance team led by DySP Firos M Shafeeq arrested the doctor for going against the rule book bar, Mathrubhumi reports.

It is reported that he was providing treatment at a private hospital for a long time. Following this, the Medical Education Department issued his suspension, however, an investigation is pending.

Further action will be taken against the doctor after the submission of a detailed report to the vigilance director. The doctor's statement has been recorded. Vigilance sub inspector Srinivasan and senior CPOs Prajith, Salim and Subin were also present in the team.

The government have taken several steps to improve the functioning of Government Medical Collegiate Hospitals in the state by implementing the ban on the private practice of doctors in Government Medical/Dental Colleges. 

Kerala decided to ban the private practice of doctors working in government-run medical, dental and nursing colleges in the state in 2011. However, to prevent financial loss, the state tries to increase the pay package of doctors.

States like Karnataka, Telangana and West Bengal have completely banned doctors from practising privately. Although the government have imposed strict directive, there are many complaints and reports of doctor violating the rule.

Also read- Karnataka Reforms Panel Suggests Complete Ban On Private Practice Of Doctors