Homoeopathic doctors urge govt to expand services, fill vacant posts

The Punjab unit of the Indian Institute of Homoeopathic Physicians has called on the state government to appoint homoeopathic medical officers (HMOs) in Aam Aadmi clinics to promote the homoeopathic system of medicine and provide cost-effective healthcare to patients. Additionally, the unit has requested the establishment of a government-run homoeopathic medical college in the state, as Punjab is the only state in India without a government-run homoeopathic medical college.

Dr AS Mann, an advisor to the Indian Institute of Homoeopathic Physicians, emphasised appointing HMOs in Aam Aadmi Clinics is crucial, as a significant section of society prefers homoeopathic treatment. He explained many people trust the homoeopathic system of medicine and believe it offers effective solutions for various health conditions.

Dr Mann also suggested the state government should submit a proposal to the AYUSH Department to establish a government homoeopathic medical college in the state. He said with approval from the Centre, the college could help meet the growing demand for professional homoeopathic education in the state.

In addition to these requests, Dr Mann pointed out that the state is facing a shortage of homoeopathic professionals. He said as of now, 18 District Homoeopathic Officer positions remain vacant, causing disruptions in the functioning of district offices. Several districts have been assigned a single officer to oversee multiple offices. Furthermore, of the 89 HMO positions, about 46 are vacant across various districts. The situation is compounded by the shortage of dispensers, with 76 out of 110 posts also unfilled.

Dr Mann urged the state government to prioritise filling these vacancies.