The Tribune impact: State rights panel seeks report on doc shortage

The Director, Health and Family Welfare, has been asked to file a report over the shortage of doctors in Muktsar district by June-end. The action came after the Punjab State Human Rights Commission took suo motu notice of The Tribune report, “Doctor shortage ails healthcare in Muktsar”, published on Monday.

A spokesperson for the commission said the matter was taken up with the Director after it was highlighted that the district was functioning with only a quarter of its sanctioned posts.

1,000 doctors to be recruited: Minister

Mohali: Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Balbir Singh on Monday said the state government would soon recruit 1,000 doctors to address the shortage of medical professionals in government hospitals.

“The recruitment process has already commenced,” he added.

Medicine, surgery, gynaecology and paediatrics specialists are reportedly available at most sub-divisional hospitals and community health centres (CHCs). Now, eye, ENT and dermatology specialists will be assigned on weekly roster basis at various facilities.

During a surprise inspection of hospitals in Dera Bassi, Lalru and Zirakpur (Dhakoli) on Monday, Balbir Singh interacted with patients and visitors to elicit their views on the existing healthcare facilities. He also inquired about the waiting time for obtaining OPD slips.