Tamil Nadu UHWC doctors demand single shift system, salary revision
doctor demand
Chennai: Doctors working in Tamil Nadu’s Government Urban Health and Wellness Centres (UHWCs) have decided to submit representations to the State Government and other concerned authorities, raising concerns over issues including duty hours, job security, salary revision, NEET PG reservation for UHWC doctors, and workplace safety.
The decision was taken during the General Body Meeting of Government UHWC doctors held on May 28, 2026, at the ICSA Centre in Egmore, Chennai. The meeting was attended by doctors representing various parts of Tamil Nadu. During the meeting, members also decided to establish and formally register the Tamil Nadu Government Urban Health and Wellness Centre Doctors Association.
The newly elected office-bearers include Dr M. Senthilkumar as President, Dr A.R. Shanthi as General Secretary, and Dr G.N. Praveen as Treasurer. A 45-member Executive Committee was also constituted to oversee the functioning of the association.
The association pointed out that the Health and Wellness Centres of Tamil Nadu operate in 2 shifts, i.e., from 8 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm. These timings are seriously affecting the mental and physical health of doctors, and they are also unable to spend time on personal work and family. Online and offline meetings and inspections are often conducted during break hours (12 PM – 4 PM).
Because most doctors are travelling and travel expenses are high, many are staying at the centre from 12 pm to 4 pm. Thus, doctors are in the centres for almost 12 hours. The association has urged the government to implement a single shift duty in UHWCs of Tamil Nadu.
The association also demanded job security and permanent employment through special MRB recruitment, a fair salary hike for UHWC Medical Officers, and timely salary disbursement before the 5th of every month. Moreover, maternity leave, medical leave, and emergency medical insurance for UHWC doctors are also demanded by them.
Another issue that they addressed is NEET PG reservation for UHWC doctors, considering their public health service and contribution. Furthermore, workplace safety measures, including police patrol support during evening hours and accommodation facilities and additional benefits for doctors serving in hilly areas and red zones, are also needed.
“Chennai UHWC (Greater Chennai Corporation) may have noticed discrepancies between our actual attendance and the app-based attendance records. This is an important matter that may affect all. Due to the app's technical issues, many couldn't enter the app; even a minute's delay, the salary will be cut down, and also the Govt holidays and week off for the doctors who are working under Greater Chennai Corporation,” the association added.
They also demanded that, as per norms govt holidays, week off should be given to the Chennai Urban Health and Wellness Centres, and Transparent allocation of NQAS and Kayakalp assessment funds.
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