Doctors' Body Calls for Overhaul of Punjab's Healthcare Policies
The Indian Doctors for Peace and Development (IDPD) has issued a strong appeal to the Punjab government, urging it to move away from what they describe as "contract-based, unprofessional, and makeshift policies" such as Mohalla Clinics. Instead, the doctors' organization emphasizes the need to bolster the fundamental structure of the state's healthcare system.
Criticism of Proposed Aam Aadmi Village Clinic Scheme
In a joint statement, representatives Dr. Arun Mitra, Dr. Jasbir Singh Aulakh, and Dr. Indervir Singh Gill questioned the newly proposed Aam Aadmi Village Clinic scheme. They argued that there is a lack of serious effort to enhance the primary healthcare system, particularly its preventive and promotive aspects, which they claim have been severely compromised by the OPD-based model of the existing Aam Aadmi Clinics.
The statement further highlighted concerns that even in the proposed village clinics, core issues of primary healthcare are unlikely to be addressed. It pointed out that teleconsultation schemes have already failed at both the district hospital and community health officer (CHO) levels, with the government not conducting any reviews of these failures.
Issues with Contract-Based Recruitment
The doctors' body also raised alarms about the government's shift towards contract-based recruitment, which they say is replacing regular posts. For instance, instead of filling permanent positions for doctors, pharmacists, lab technicians, and Class IV employees in primary health centers, contract staff are being appointed. These employees can be dismissed without reason with just a week's notice, and women workers are being denied basic rights such as maternity leave.
Additionally, the statement criticized the sanitation budget for village clinics, which is set at only Rs 5,000, inclusive of sanitation workers' salaries. The IDPD labeled this arrangement as a violation of labor laws.
Demands for Comprehensive Review and Consultation
In light of these issues, the medics have demanded that the Punjab government engage in consultations with health experts and organizations operating in the sector. They call for a thorough review of the healthcare system, the filling of regular posts, and the abandonment of what they term "ad hoc policies." The IDPD stresses that a robust, sustainable healthcare framework is essential for the well-being of Punjab's residents.
