Chandigarh Health Department Introduces Specialist Services at Urban Primary Health Centres

Chandigarh: The health department has started providing specialist medical services in peripheral areas by hiring doctors on a slot basis for its primary health centres, also known as Urban Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (UAAMs). The initiative is aimed at strengthening primary healthcare while ensuring easier access to specialised treatment for urban and semi-urban populations.

According to the news reports, so far, seven specialists from disciplines including medicine, surgery, paediatrics, ophthalmology, ENT, psychiatry, and dermatology have been empanelled. Additionally, two more specialists in general surgery and medicine are expected to join following walk-in interviews. These doctors will provide services at UAAMs located in Badheri, Raipur Kalan, Manimajra, Sarangpur, Behlana, Kaimbwal, and Sectors 25, 33, 39, 52, and Palsoea.

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The department had earlier struggled to attract medical officers and specialists under the National Health Mission. However, the slot-based hiring model, implemented under the Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, has received a positive response. Specialists are empanelled on an honorarium basis and paid Rs 2,000 per two-hour slot, usually working two slots per day according to a monthly duty roster.

In the past, the department struggled to retain medical officers and specialists, even after increasing salaries to match those offered in neighbouring states. Officials say the new model strikes a balance by offering specialists flexible working hours and a manageable workload, while ensuring that primary health centres have access to regular specialist consultancy.

Speaking to Hindustan Times, Director of Health Services, Dr Suman Singh, said that the response has been positive because the roles are limited to specific slots and do not involve heavy paperwork, administrative responsibilities, or long duty hours. As primary health centres serve as the first point of contact for comprehensive care, the introduction of these specialist services is aimed at reducing crowding at civil and district hospitals.

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