Tamil Nadu suspends doctor, UPHC Staff for absence during duty hours

Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Health Department has temporarily suspended the duty doctor, nurse, and other staff at the Upgraded Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Melvisharam, Ranipet district, after they were found absent during duty hours. 

The suspension followed a surprise inspection conducted on Wednesday morning by State Health Minister Ma. Subramanian. Arriving at the facility around 8 a.m., the Minister found that no staff—neither the on-duty doctor, nurse, nor other medical workers—were present, despite the centre’s scheduled hours of 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on all days except Sundays.

During the inspection, the minister personally interacted with patients waiting, including an expectant mother, who had arrived for medical attention but found no staff on duty.

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A preliminary investigation was conducted, and appropriate action has been taken against those who failed to perform their work, said the health department, reports the DT Next.

Speaking to the Hindu, Health officials said that besides suspending the three staff members, a show cause notice has also been issued to the Arcot Block Medical Officer (BMO), seeking an explanation for the absence of duty staff at the centre.

According to departmental norms, the BMO is expected to monitor the functioning of health centres and ensure timely reporting and accountability of medical staff and field workers. The notice was issued by the Deputy Director of Health Services (DDHS), who is now overseeing an inquiry into the matter.

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