SURAT: In a significant blow to the public healthcare system in Gujarat, twelve doctors have resigned from SMIMER (Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education and Research) within a span of just a few days, highlighting deep-rooted systemic issues within the institution.
Mass Exodus Reflects Deeper Crisis
According to media reports, the first wave of six resignations occurred earlier this week, followed by another six doctors quitting just two days later. All twelve resignations have been formally accepted by the Standing Committee of the Surat Municipal Corporation.
Reasons Behind the Departures
Preliminary information indicates a pattern that has long plagued public healthcare in India:
- Low salaries and heavy workloads
- Inadequate infrastructure and outdated equipment
- Better pay and work environments in the private sector
A number of these doctors have reportedly shifted to private hospitals, lured by more competitive compensation and access to better resources. Similar resignations in the past signal that this is not an isolated incident but part of a chronic retention issue at SMIMER.
Impact on Patient Care
SMIMER caters to over 3,000 patients daily, and the abrupt loss of personnel is already straining its capacity:
- Longer wait times
- Reduced access to specialist consultations
- Drop in quality and continuity of care
For many low-income residents who rely solely on SMIMER for affordable treatment, the resignations could have serious health implications.
Urgent Calls for Reform
The resignations have been brought before the Standing Committee, and local officials have been urged to investigate the matter thoroughly. News18 Gujarat and other outlets report this event is being viewed as a wake-up call for the Gujarat Health Department and SMIMER administration.
Experts and health advocates are calling for:
- Immediate recruitment drives
- Better salaries and incentives
- Improved working conditions and medical infrastructure
Background: Ongoing Policy Pressures
Earlier, SMIMER doctors were directed to prescribe only generic medicines to reduce patient costs, a policy that may have added to the pressure on staff who already struggle with limited medical resources.
Conclusion
This mass resignation serves as a stark reminder that public health infrastructure must be sustainably supported to retain talent and deliver quality care. Without systemic reforms, such incidents may continue to erode the trust and functionality of government-run health institutions like SMIMER.
