Five months on, specialist cadre yet to be implemented in health sector

Over five months after the Haryana Government approved the creation of a specialist cadre in the state’s Health Department, its implementation is still pending. The Finance Department issued a notification on August 16, 2024, specifying the pay band, but no further progress has been made.

Long-awaited step

The creation of a specialist cadre was a long-awaited step to enhance healthcare delivery in Haryana, but the lack of implementation has demoralised young specialists who expect clarity about their future. — A specialist

The specialist cadre, aimed at deploying specialists in district and sub-divisional hospitals as well as first referral units, was introduced after sustained efforts and protests by the Haryana Civil Medical Association (HCMA). The association had raised concerns over promotions, recruitment and retention of specialists in government hospitals.

“The creation of a specialist cadre was a long-awaited step to enhance healthcare delivery in Haryana, but the lack of implementation has demoralised young specialists who expect clarity about their future,” said a young specialist.

States like Bihar and Madhya Pradesh have already implemented similar initiatives. Another specialist said, “This delay is adversely affecting patient care as doctors are reluctant to join government services. The absence of a specialist cadre impacts not only career growth but also the quality of healthcare services provided to patients.”

The HCMA has suggested that the government count pre-PG service for in-service candidates towards the cadre’s Assured Career Progression (ACP) and promotions.

Director General of Health Services Dr Manish Bansal confirmed ongoing communication with the government. Health Minister Arti Singh Rao said, “The file is still with the Finance Department. The moment we get clearance, this will be immediately executed.”