Odisha Govt doctors launch protest over 18-point charter of demands
Bhubaneswar: To further push for long-pending demands that remain unaddressed by the government, the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA), which represents government doctors in the state, has launched protests from November 20, according to a poster shared on social media.
One of their main demands is the quick implementation of the Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP) system, which ensures timely promotions for government doctors.
The association highlighted their 18-point charter of demands, without which the doctors working at government hospitals continue to face challenges. The demands include the implementation of Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP) for all government doctors, a KBK exit policy, transparent transfer procedures, cadre restructuring, regular DPCs, safety and security of healthcare professionals, health insurance, and basic amenities.
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OMSA has also sought PAR reforms, clean administration, uniform OPD and emergency services, and involvement of OMSA in consultations on policy matters. In addition, Capital Hospital, revising allowances, regularising ad-hoc doctors, strengthening institutions, and justice for veterans are among the other major issues raised by the doctors.
Medical Dialogues in April had reported that, frustrated by ongoing discussions with the state government that have not led to any concrete action yet, doctors under the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) warned the state government that they may cease work and submit mass resignations if their seven-point charter of demands is not fulfilled within a month.
Expressing strong dissatisfaction, the doctors issued an ultimatum, stating that the state government has failed to address their demands despite numerous rounds of discussions. Frustated by the lack of progress, they warned that if their demands are not addressed, over 5,000 doctors across the state will submit mass resignations by June 20. Still, they will begin boycotting outpatient services on Sundays and holidays starting May 20, excluding emergency duties.
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