The Telangana Teaching Government Doctors Association (TTGDA) has called upon the state government to revisit several aspects of the ongoing transfer process for government doctors, raising concerns over fairness, transparency, and the welfare of medical staff working under challenging conditions across the state.
Key Demands for Transfer Revisions
In a representation submitted to the health department, the association requested that transfers be implemented for up to 40% of the working strength, arguing that the current limit restricts opportunities for many eligible doctors seeking relocation. The association emphasized that increasing the transfer percentage would particularly benefit doctors serving in peripheral, rural, and underserved areas for extended periods, many of whom face personal and professional hardships.
Challenges Faced by Doctors in Remote Areas
TTGDA leaders stressed that doctors posted in remote regions often work under difficult circumstances, including staff shortages, heavy patient loads, and limited infrastructure. They argued that a more flexible transfer policy would improve morale among medical professionals and help address long-pending requests from doctors seeking postings closer to their families or native places.
Call for Transparency and Uniform Policy
The association also called for greater transparency in the transfer process to ensure that all eligible doctors receive fair consideration. It urged the government to adopt a clear and uniform policy to prevent grievances and maintain confidence among healthcare workers. According to the association, a balanced and employee-friendly transfer system is essential not only for the welfare of doctors but also for the efficient functioning of government hospitals and healthcare institutions across Telangana.
Specific Demands on Classification and Seniority
TTGDA appealed against the demarcation of focal and non-focal areas for DME doctors, stating that existing norms classify them only under Hyderabad and non-Hyderabad categories. The association further sought transfers to be carried out primarily on the basis of seniority, in line with G.O.Ms. No. 38, while applying special conditions thereafter.
Additional Requests
Among other demands, the association requested clarity on union recognition and exemptions through written orders, reduction of the transfer eligibility period to two years, and direct recruitment after transfers to fill vacancies. It also asked the government to fill existing vacancies at assistant professor and associate professor levels before implementing mandatory shifting.
TTGDA appealed to the government to hold discussions with stakeholders and make necessary revisions to the transfer guidelines in the interest of both doctors and public healthcare services.
