Medics Demand Security After Orthopaedics Doctor’s Hand Fractured
Bhubaneswar: Tension prevailed at Capital Hospital here after a relative of a patient allegedly assaulted an on-duty doctor from the orthopaedics department, fracturing his left hand. The incident triggered protests by doctors, raising concerns over the safety of medical professionals within hospital premises.
Protest by Doctors
In protest against the alleged assault, doctors on Saturday wore black badges while on duty. They condemned the attack, which reportedly took place on Friday following a heated argument at the outpatient department (OPD) over an accident victim not being examined immediately.
Details of the Incident
According to protesting doctors, the patient’s relative, who had come from Nimapada in Puri district, allegedly attacked the orthopaedics doctor with a helmet during the altercation. News agency PTI reported that a dressing staff member was also assaulted in the incident.
Doctor Suffers Bone Injury
Hospital officials confirmed that the injured doctor sustained a bone injury in his left hand. The assault has once again highlighted the recurring issue of violence against healthcare workers in government hospitals.
Police Action Taken
Police said a case has been registered based on the complaint lodged by the injured doctor. One person has been arrested in connection with the incident. The accused has been identified as Bindu Sagar Rout (39), a police officer said.
Doctors Voice Fear and Demands
“If we are physically assaulted while performing our duties, how can we serve people without fear? Our primary demand is adequate security at the hospital,” a protesting doctor said. Another doctor claimed that similar incidents have occurred at least twice in the past few months.
Hospital Services Continue
Despite the protest, hospital authorities and the Junior Doctors’ Association (JDA) stated that patient care remained unaffected and OPD services continued as normal. However, they warned that OPD services could be suspended if the government fails to implement adequate security measures soon, according to Odisha Bytes.
Government Assures Safety
Health and Family Welfare Secretary Aswathy S visited Capital Hospital and held discussions with protesting doctors and officials. “It is our duty to provide security to doctors. We will take all care to ensure the safety of the medics,” she said, adding that police action has already begun and efforts are underway to identify and arrest any other persons involved in the attack.
