Punjab Govt to hire 1,000 doctors, recruitment underway
1000 New Doctors in Punjab
Mohali: In a bid to address the increasing shortage of medical professionals in government hospitals, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh announced on Monday that the recruitment process for 1,000 doctors has already commenced.
Medical Dialogues had previously reported that in a major boost to the state’s healthcare infrastructure, the Punjab Government has decided to recruit 1,000 Medical Officers (MBBS). The decision was revealed during a meeting held between Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare Kumar Rahul, Director Health Services Dr. Hitinder Kaur, Director PHSC Dr. Anil Goyal, and representatives of the Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA).
Dr. Singh announced a surprise inspection of healthcare facilities in Dera Bassi, Lalru, and Zirakpur (Dhakoli). During his visit, he observed staffing shortages and inadequate infrastructure at some hospitals, which are currently struggling to meet the growing demand for healthcare services. The minister took the opportunity to interact with patients and their families, gaining first-hand insight into the challenges faced by the public in accessing healthcare services.
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According to Hindustan Times, “The Punjab government is committed to delivering quality healthcare services in government hospitals, which include free lab tests and medicines. Specialists in medicine, surgery, gynaecology and pediatrics are available in most sub-divisional hospitals and community health centres (CHCs),” he said, adding that eye, ENT and dermatology specialists would be assigned on a weekly basis at the facilities having these positions vacant.
The minister highlighted that the CHC in Lalru was well-equipped in terms of infrastructure, and plans were in place to recruit additional staff to enhance service delivery. He also pointed out the sub-divisional hospital in Dera Bassi, where staffing levels were deemed sufficient. However, the hospital faced issues related to space constraints. At the Zirakpur facility, Dr. Singh highlighted the availability of advanced medical services, including laparoscopic surgery, which is now being offered alongside other essential treatments.
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The minister also addressed the ongoing issue of nursing staff shortages in the state’s hospitals. He explained that his visit was focused on assessing the situation firsthand by engaging with the public and offering important directives to the medical and paramedical staff to ensure the maintenance of high-quality patient care.
