Acute Shortage Hits Rural Healthcare Amid Seasonal Disease Threat
Jaipur: The Rajasthan health department has terminated the services of 600 doctors employed on an urgent temporary basis (UTB) after their tenure ended on March 31. This decision has created a severe doctor shortage in government hospitals, particularly in rural areas.
Unlike previous years, when their tenure was extended, the government declined to renew contracts this time, citing financial constraints. Additionally, 130 doctors who received transfer orders in January have refused to join their new postings, further exacerbating the crisis.
Healthcare Facilities Under Threat
With the onset of summer and the rising risk of seasonal diseases and heat-related illnesses, experts warn that the lack of doctors could severely impact healthcare services. Many primary health centres (PHCs) and community health centres (CHCs) risk closure due to the shortage.
A senior health department official confirmed the decision, stating:
“We have not received financial approval to retain these doctors, leading to their immediate termination from April 1.”
Following a state-level video conference on April 1, district health officials were instructed to relieve the doctors from duty immediately.
No Alternative Plan in Place
The health department has no contingency plan to address the sudden vacancies. The Doctors Welfare Federation India (DWF) has urged the government to reconsider its decision.
DWF National President Dr Chandraveer Singh warned:
“If these doctors are not reinstated, healthcare in rural areas will collapse. Many PHCs and CHCs will be forced to shut down due to the lack of medical staff.”
With no immediate solution in sight, Rajasthan’s healthcare system faces an unprecedented crisis.
