Punjab Govt warns doctors over negligence in duty

Chandigarh: Noting a rise in negligence during duty hours, the Punjab government has warned doctors of strict action if found guilty of negligence in OPD services or in carrying out assigned duties at government hospitals.

In a circular issued to all medical officers, Principal Secretary (Health) Kumar Rahul pointed out that some cases of negligence in outpatient departments (OPDs) and official duties had come to the government's notice. He said such lapses could damage the image of the state government and made it clear that action would be taken under rules against doctors found guilty.

Further, the circular directed that these instructions be strictly implemented across all health institutions in Punjab. While the government described the circular as an advisory meant to encourage doctors to work with full dedication, many in the medical fraternity feel the warning is unfair.

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The doctors claimed that they are already overburdened due to acute manpower shortages, particularly during the recent floods. Hence, an advisory amid the current situation is unacceptable, according to them.

In response to the government's advisory, the Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA) has opposed the order and decided to raise the issue with the health department.

Speaking to TOI, PCMSA president Dr Akhil Sarin said, "Despite working under severe shortages, the medical officers have been performing their duties diligently. Their services during the recent floods are there for everyone to see. We will discuss the matter with PSHFW and clear the air."

As per the daily media report, the healthcare system in Punjab continues to struggle with a shortage of doctors, poor infrastructure and a lack of staff in many hospitals despite each district in Punjab having at least one district hospital.

The state's doctor-to-population ratio stands close to 1.05 per 1,000, well below the national average of 1:811. Punjab has set an ambitious target of raising this ratio to 2 doctors per 1,000 people by 2030, and 4 per 1,000 by 2047.

To address the shortfall, the state recruited 934 doctors since 2022, over 24% of the current strength of 3,831 medical officers and specialists posted at primary health centres, community health centres, and district hospitals.

Officials said further recruitment is underway, with additional doctors expected to join within the next one to two months. The government is also in the process of filling 1,000 new posts, while last year it advertised 400 posts after a gap of four years, of which 284 candidates joined.

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