Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Mar 25: The Health & Medical Education (H&ME) Department has directed doctors to remain at their designated hospitals during working hours and instructed institution heads to prevent private practice during office hours.
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In a circular issued in this regard, the authorities stated that some doctors have been engaging in private practice during official working hours, adversely affecting patient care and disrupting the smooth functioning of Government healthcare institutions.
“Such practices are strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated.” As per the circular, all Principals of Medical Colleges, Medical Superintendents of Associated Hospitals, Chief Medical Officers, and Medical Superintendents of District Hospitals have been directed to ensure that no doctor under their jurisdiction indulges in private practice during office hours.
“Any violation of this directive will be treated as serious misconduct and will attract strict disciplinary action under the applicable service rules.”
The key directives include that all doctors must remain available at their designated hospitals and health institutions during working hours.
“Heads of institutions must monitor attendance and ensure that patient care is not compromised. Any complaints or reports regarding doctors engaging in private practice during duty hours should be promptly investigated, and necessary action must be taken.”
The directives also call for surprise inspections and periodic reviews to ensure compliance. “This directive must be strictly enforced in the interest of strengthening public healthcare services and maintaining the highest standards of professional ethics.”
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