The government of Uttarakhand has made the decision to fire 118 physicians who have neglected their jobs for long stretches of time—in some cases, years. Despite numerous warnings, these physicians—who were selected by the state’s health agency and come from all 13 districts—have not shown up for work. For up to six years, some of them have been missing. Since many of these physicians were assigned to serve in both distant and plain areas, where medical services are desperately required, the state health agency considers this absenteeism to be a severe problem.
The health department’s joint director, Dr. Anil Mohan Johri, stated that despite prior warnings over the doctors’ absenteeism, nothing had changed. Now that a final notice has been issued, these doctors have 14 days to report back to work and offer a valid reason for their extended absence. The department has said unequivocally that a protracted breach of duty will only be tolerated if there is a legitimate and significant reason.
The government has taken two steps to stop these absentee physicians from working. First and foremost, it is meant to strongly convey to other members of the health sector the negative effects of ignoring their professional obligations. Second, by firing these physicians, the government hopes to open up positions in the health department for younger physicians. This is viewed as a chance to guarantee that additional medical personnel may be sent to provide public health services, particularly in underprivileged areas.
The appointment of new physicians to replace those whose services are being terminated was verified by State Health Minister Dhan Singh Rawat. Within the following two weeks, the administration hopes to finish the termination procedure. To further demonstrate the government’s commitment to promptly filling these positions, the health department has already submitted a proposal for 276 new positions to the Health Service Selection Board.
Many of the absentee physicians left public hospitals after being promoted to senior positions and opening private clinics, according to a health department source. It is thought that this habit of balancing government and private obligations is one of the main causes of their inability to carry out their tasks in the public healthcare industry.
The Uttarakhand government’s move demonstrates its commitment to enhancing public access to healthcare services and ensuring accountability in the healthcare sector.
SOURCE :
TIMES OF INDIA
