Andhra doctors seek clarity on SR appointments

Kurnool: While postgraduate students under the State Quota are mandatorily required to serve in government medical colleges, confusion has arisen among several PG students admitted under the All India Quota (AIQ) in Andhra Pradesh who have completed their courses and are unsure whether they are eligible for Senior Residency appointments in government medical colleges, as they have not signed any service bond.

The uncertainty is particularly affecting the academic future of these students. They have sought a fair and uniform policy from the government while awaiting clarity on the issue.

At present, PG students admitted under the State Quota sign a mandatory bond at the time of admission. As per the bond, they must serve for at least one year in government hospitals after completing their course. However, AIQ candidates are not required to sign such a bond. Because of this, authorities are unsure whether they can appoint AIQ graduates as Senior Residents.

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In this regard, the students have submitted a representation to college principals seeking inclusion of AIQ candidates in SR appointments. However, the principals of government colleges are also waiting for clear directions from the Director of Medical Education (DME) on whether AIQ candidates can be appointed as Senior Residents.

This uncertainty comes at a time when government medical colleges are already facing a shortage of Senior Residents. For example, Kurnool Medical College requires 106 Senior Residents, but only 43 have been appointed so far. All of them are State Quota PG graduates. The remaining vacant posts have increased the workload on existing doctors.

Across Andhra Pradesh, there are 18 government medical colleges, excluding AIIMS Mangalagiri, including Padmavathi Women’s Medical College. It is estimated that around 1,500 Senior Residents are needed in these institutions.

As per Deccan Chronicle media report, Many Telugu students who are natives of Andhra Pradesh secured PG seats under the All India Quota based on merit. However, the current lack of clarity has put their careers on hold.

Completing at least one year of Senior Residency is mandatory to become eligible for the post of Assistant Professor in government medical colleges.

Kurnool Medical College principal Dr Chitti Narsamma said, "Clarity from the DME is awaited. At present, only 43 senior residents have been appointed. Further appointments will depend on the directions issued by the DME."

An AIQ student told Deccan Chronicle that denying SR opportunities will adversely affect their academic future. The student asked the government to ensure a fair and uniform policy.

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