Action follows repeated complaints, inspections reveal serious lapses in duty
Lucknow: Acting on repeated complaints of absenteeism, misbehaviour with patients and failure to follow official instructions, the Uttar Pradesh government has dismissed 17 medical officers from government hospitals. The action was taken after departmental reviews and multiple warnings failed to bring any improvement in their conduct.
Unauthorised Absence Found in Probe
According to reports, investigations revealed that several of the dismissed doctors remained absent from their postings for long periods without authorisation. Their absence directly affected healthcare services at government hospitals and community health centres, causing inconvenience to patients.
Repeated Attempts to Contact Failed
Health Minister Brajesh Pathak stated that departmental officials made several attempts to contact the absent doctors, but no satisfactory response was received. Following this, he directed the additional chief secretary of the health department to initiate their dismissal with immediate effect, according to a statement issued by his office and reported by PTI.
Patient Complaints Verified
The government also took note of multiple patient complaints related to rude behaviour, non-availability of doctors during duty hours and disregard for departmental orders. These complaints were verified through surprise inspections, attendance records and reports submitted by district health authorities.
Doctors Missing During Inspections
In several cases, doctors were found missing during inspections despite being officially posted at medical facilities. Officials said such lapses reflected serious negligence in public service and could not be ignored, particularly in the healthcare sector.
Message of Zero Tolerance
Speaking to the Free Press Journal, health department officials said the dismissals were meant to send a strong message that negligence and indiscipline in essential services like healthcare would not be tolerated. Government doctors, they said, are expected to strictly follow duty schedules and maintain professional behaviour with patients.
Steps to Prevent Recurrence
To prevent similar incidents, senior health officials have been directed to strengthen monitoring mechanisms. These include regular inspections, biometric attendance systems and periodic reviews of grievance redressal processes. District authorities have also been asked to ensure uninterrupted patient care despite vacancies caused by the dismissals.
More Action Possible
Officials added that disciplinary proceedings against other erring personnel are under review and further action may follow if violations are found. The state government reiterated that improving healthcare quality and ensuring accountability of medical staff remain among its top priorities.
