Is Maharashtra having a Medical Meltdown? 500+ Appointments cancelled as Specialists Opt Out
Shortage of Doctors
Mumbai: Maharashtra's public healthcare system is likely to reel under a worsening staffing crisis, as more than 500 specialist doctors have refused to take up government jobs, compelling the state to cancel their appointments. The vacancies, meant for gynecologists, pediatricians, anesthetists, and other specialists, were part of a recruitment drive aimed at strengthening public hospitals, especially in rural and tribal areas. However, poor pay, inadequate infrastructure, and delays in the hiring process have pushed many doctors to turn their backs on government appointments and opt for private practice or out-of-state opportunities instead.
Doctors Reject Government Jobs Over Pay, Workload, and Poor Infrastructure
The Maharashtra government initiated a recruitment drive on January 31, 2024, to fill crucial specialist positions across state-run hospitals. Following the selection process, appointment orders were issued on June 20, 2024, with candidates expected to complete document verification and join their posts within the stipulated timeframe. However, many never reported for duty.
“Many selected doctors hesitate to join due to the heavy workload, inadequate infrastructure, and lower pay,” a senior health department official told the Indian Express.
One of the biggest deterrents remains salary disparity. Medical Officers (Group-A) in Maharashtra earn between Rs 56,100 and Rs 1,77,500 per month, with an average salary of Rs 95,935. Meanwhile, private-sector specialists earn an average of Rs1.53 lakh per month, making government service a far less lucrative option.
Another issue is the slow hiring process. “By the time appointment letters were issued, many of us had already joined private hospitals,” a doctor who declined his appointment told Doctors Post.
Public Hospitals Struggle as Shortages Persist
Despite multiple recruitment attempts, Maharashtra’s public hospitals remain short-staffed, especially in rural and tribal regions. Many hospitals lack essential medical equipment and support staff, making it difficult for specialists to function effectively.
Also Read: CAG Report Highlights Staff Shortages, Delays in Healthcare Projects in Maharashtra
“Without proper working conditions, how can we provide quality care?” asked a doctor who refused his appointment, speaking to Indian Express.
A 2021 survey by Jan Arogya Abhiyan highlighted Maharashtra’s worsening doctor shortage. 22 out of 38 rural hospitals stopped conducting Caesarean sections due to a lack of specialists, while routine surgeries were unavailable in 17 districts. In 2022, state-run medical colleges recorded a 46.68% vacancy rate for senior doctors, increasing workload and delaying treatments.
“Without specialists, rural hospitals turn into referral centers, forcing patients to travel long distances,” Dr Abhay Shukla, a public health expert told Doctors Post.
Government Cancels 500+ Appointments, Scrambles to Fill Vacancies
On February 5, 2025, the Maharashtra Health Department issued Order MVAi-2024/Pr. No. 382/Service-3, cancelling over 400 appointments due to non-joining. Additionally, two more orders earlier this month revoked another 60 appointments, bringing the total cancellations to over 460 doctor positions.
To prevent further disruptions in critical departments like gynecology, anesthesia, and emergency care, the government now plans to fill the vacancies from the waiting list. “Leaving these positions vacant is not an option. The hiring process must be streamlined to avoid such delays,” a senior official stated.
Experts Call for Urgent Reforms in Pay and Infrastructure
Public health experts warn that unless Maharashtra improves salaries, hospital infrastructure, and hiring speed, the shortage of specialist doctors will persist, putting millions of patients at risk.
“To retain skilled doctors in government hospitals, Maharashtra must offer competitive salaries, better incentives, and improved working conditions. Without these changes, vacancies will continue to plague the public health system,” Dr Abhay Shukla stated.
The Maharashtra government’s failure to offer competitive pay, fix recruitment delays, and upgrade medical infrastructure is driving doctors away. While officials claim to be working on new strategies to retain specialists, the reality is that hundreds of crucial positions remain vacant, worsening the state’s healthcare crisis.
