RTI data reveals shortage of 280 specialist doctors at Kerala Govt Hospitals
Kerala: Government hospitals across Kerala are facing a shortage of at least 280 specialist doctors, affecting the delivery of critical healthcare services, particularly maternal and emergency care, according to data obtained through the Right to Information (RTI) Act.
The shortage has made it difficult for several hospitals to provide round-the-clock specialist care, with experts urging the state government to fill vacant posts and increase promotions.
The issue has come under renewed focus following recent incidents at government hospitals in the state. Earlier this year, a senior gynaecologist at a government hospital in Malappuram was allegedly assaulted by relatives of a patient who died following childbirth, while another government hospital in Alappuzha reportedly referred several patients to a medical college hospital due to limited specialist availability, leading to protests by attendants.
According to the RTI data, more than 50 government hospitals with delivery facilities do not have adequate specialist manpower. Sources told The Hindu that each delivery point should ideally have seven specialists each in gynaecology, paediatrics and anaesthesia to ensure uninterrupted maternal and newborn care.
However, several hospitals continue to function with significantly fewer specialists. In one such hospital, only four gynaecologists are available against the requirement of seven, while a single anaesthetist is managing services that require at least two doctors, resulting in delays in surgeries when the doctor is unavailable.
According to The Hindu, RTI data obtained by the Kerala Government Specialist Doctors' Association showed vacancies across multiple specialities, including gynaecology, general medicine, general surgery, paediatrics and ENT. The report also noted that sanctioned specialist posts have seen only limited increases between 2018 and 2025, despite growing healthcare demands.
The association has urged the state government to fill existing vacancies at the earliest, increase the number of specialist cadre posts, and accelerate promotions through the Departmental Promotion Committee. It also called for the early resolution of pending litigation affecting promotions so that eligible doctors can be appointed to vacant positions without further delay.
