Mumbai: In a major push to improve accountability in public healthcare, the Maharashtra Government has taken strict disciplinary action against absentee doctors in state-run hospitals, leading to the termination of 58 medical officers and action against hundreds more.
710 Doctors Issued Notices, 442 Face Disciplinary Action
Minister for Public Health and Family Welfare Prakash Abitkar informed the Legislative Council that notices were served to 710 doctors for unauthorised absence. Out of these, 442 have already undergone disciplinary proceedings.
The move is part of a broader strategy to ensure the consistent availability of healthcare professionals and to strengthen service delivery in government hospitals across the state.
Biometric & GPS Attendance Systems to Be Introduced
To prevent future absenteeism, the state government is planning to implement advanced attendance monitoring systems, including biometric verification, facial recognition, and GPS-based tracking across healthcare facilities.
These measures are expected to significantly improve staff accountability and patient care standards.
Expanded Coverage Under Health Schemes
The government has also expanded the scope of treatment under key schemes like Ayushman Bharat and Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana.
The number of covered ailments has been increased from 1,359 to 2,399. Hospitals have been strictly directed not to charge patients any additional fees under these schemes.
Focus on Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Addressing the rising burden of cancer, the state is accelerating both preventive and curative initiatives. A targeted vaccination drive for adolescent girls aged 14–15 is being planned, along with a proposal submitted to the Asian Development Bank for a comprehensive cancer screening programme for individuals above 30 years.
Additionally, the government plans to establish cancer treatment centres and day-care facilities across Maharashtra in a phased manner.
Transparent Drug Procurement System Strengthened
To improve governance in medicine procurement, the Maharashtra Medical Goods Procurement Authority has been overseeing a centralised and transparent tendering system since February 2023.
This replaces the earlier procurement system managed by the Haffkine Institute between 2017 and 2020, aiming to ensure timely supply and reduce irregularities.
Special Task Force to Crack Down on Bogus Doctors
In a parallel development, Industries Minister Uday Samant announced the formation of a special task force to tackle bogus doctors and unauthorised nursing homes.
The task force, headed by the Additional Chief Secretary of the Urban Development Department, will include senior officials from health and administrative departments and is expected to recommend stricter regulations after reviewing the current situation.
Strengthening Public Healthcare Accountability
The Maharashtra government’s multi-pronged approach—ranging from strict disciplinary action to system-wide reforms—signals a strong commitment to improving accountability, transparency, and healthcare delivery across public institutions.
