Association Formed to Represent Urban Health and Wellness Centre Doctors Across Tamil Nadu
Doctors serving in Tamil Nadu’s Government Urban Health and Wellness Centres (UHWCs) have decided to submit representations to the State Government and relevant authorities, highlighting concerns related to duty hours, job security, salary revision, NEET PG reservation, workplace safety, and employee welfare.
The decision was taken during the General Body Meeting of Government UHWC doctors held on May 28, 2026, at the ICSA Centre in Egmore, Chennai. Doctors from various districts across the state participated in the meeting and resolved to establish and formally register the Tamil Nadu Government Urban Health and Wellness Centre Doctors Association.
New Office-Bearers Elected
The association elected Dr. M. Senthilkumar as President, Dr. A.R. Shanthi as General Secretary, and Dr. G.N. Praveen as Treasurer. In addition, a 45-member Executive Committee was constituted to oversee the activities and functioning of the organization.
Doctors Raise Concerns Over Long Duty Hours
One of the key issues raised by UHWC doctors is the existing two-shift working pattern followed in Tamil Nadu’s Urban Health and Wellness Centres. Currently, doctors work from 8 AM to 12 PM and again from 4 PM to 8 PM.
According to the association, the split-shift system is adversely affecting the physical and mental well-being of doctors and limiting the time available for family responsibilities and personal work. They also pointed out that official meetings, inspections, and administrative activities are frequently conducted during the break period between shifts.
The association stated that due to long travel distances and rising transportation costs, many doctors remain at the health centres during the four-hour gap, effectively extending their workday to nearly 12 hours. As a result, they have urged the government to introduce a single-shift duty system across all UHWCs in the state.
Demand for Permanent Employment and Salary Hike
The association has also called for greater job security through permanent appointments via special Medical Recruitment Board (MRB) recruitment drives. Doctors demanded a fair revision of salaries for UHWC Medical Officers and timely payment of salaries before the fifth day of every month.
In addition, they sought benefits such as maternity leave, medical leave, and emergency medical insurance coverage for all doctors working in Urban Health and Wellness Centres.
NEET PG Reservation Sought for UHWC Doctors
Recognizing the contribution of UHWC doctors to public healthcare services, the association has demanded dedicated reservation benefits in NEET PG admissions. Members argued that their service in urban primary healthcare settings should be acknowledged through appropriate postgraduate admission incentives.
Workplace Safety and Special Benefits for Difficult Areas
The doctors also emphasized the need for stronger workplace safety measures, particularly during evening shifts. They requested police patrol support around health centres operating during late hours.
Further, the association sought accommodation facilities and additional incentives for doctors serving in hilly regions and identified red-zone areas, where healthcare delivery often involves additional challenges.
Attendance App Issues and Leave Concerns Raised
The association highlighted concerns regarding app-based attendance systems used in Chennai Urban Health and Wellness Centres under the Greater Chennai Corporation.
According to the doctors, technical glitches in the attendance application have resulted in discrepancies between actual attendance and recorded attendance. They alleged that even minor delays caused by app issues can lead to salary deductions.
The association also demanded that government holidays and weekly offs be extended to doctors working under the Greater Chennai Corporation in accordance with existing norms.
Call for Transparency in Assessment Funds
Another issue raised during the meeting was the allocation of funds related to National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) and Kayakalp assessments. The association has demanded greater transparency in the distribution and utilization of these funds.
Representation to Government Planned
The newly formed Tamil Nadu Government Urban Health and Wellness Centre Doctors Association plans to formally submit its demands to the State Government and relevant authorities, seeking policy interventions to improve working conditions, welfare measures, and professional opportunities for UHWC doctors across Tamil Nadu.
