Strong Opposition from Government Doctors
Thiruvananthapuram: Government doctors in Kerala have strongly opposed the state government’s decision to extend the working hours of Community Health Centres (CHC) from 9 am to 6 pm without increasing staff strength.
KGMOA Calls Decision Impractical
The Kerala Government Medical Officers’ Association (KGMOA) described the move as impractical and unjust, saying it was taken without considering ground realities faced by doctors and health workers.
Overburdened Health Staff
According to a PTI report, the KGMOA highlighted that the decision places an unfair burden on doctors and other health workers who are already overworked, risking both staff welfare and patient care.
Difference Between CHCs and FHCs
KGMOA pointed out that Community Health Centres function under conditions very different from Family Health Centres and carry wider responsibilities, making the extension of working hours without additional support problematic.
Staff Shortage in CHCs
The association said that existing government norms on minimum staff strength are not being followed and no new posts have been created in recent years. Many Community Health Centres currently operate with only three doctors.
Impact on Patient Care
Extending OPD hours till evening would mean only two doctors, along with the charge officer, managing the OPD until 6 pm. During peak morning hours, this could leave only one doctor attending to patients, potentially causing dissatisfaction, conflicts, and affecting care quality.
Demand for Withdrawal of Order
KGMOA demanded that the government immediately withdraw the revised order and ensure adequate human resources before implementing such changes, emphasizing that staff welfare and patient safety must come first.
Warning of Resistance
The association also warned that it would strongly resist any move that further burdens doctors who are unable to even take their entitled leave due to heavy workloads. The statement was signed by KGMOA president Dr Sunil P K and general secretary Dr Jobin G Joseph.
