The doctors’ outpatient (OP) boycott at government medical colleges in Kerala has extended into its fifth day, led by the Kerala Government Medical College Teachers’ Association (KGMCTA) advocating for the resolution of longstanding issues. A “duty roster system” has been introduced by the government to monitor attendance, requiring doctors to fulfill both OP duties and operation theatre schedules. Those participating in the strike will have their attendance recorded under this system.
The strike, aimed at addressing salary arrears, the creation of new positions, and other service-related matters, has disrupted regular hospital services. Despite the government’s firm stance, the KGMCTA has vowed to continue the strike until their demands are met in full. Emergency surgeries are still being performed, but many scheduled operations have been delayed.
Initially, postgraduate (PG) students had planned to stop work in solidarity with senior doctors, but they later rescinded this decision following discussions with Health Department officials. The government has committed to meeting the doctors’ key demands, focusing on increasing stipends, settling arrears, and promptly implementing revised rates. A formal order addressing stipend arrears and revised pay scales is set to be issued promptly.
The ongoing strike underscores the concerns of medical professionals regarding work conditions, compensation, and support structures in government hospitals. While routine healthcare services have been affected, emergency care remains unaffected. Authorities emphasize ongoing dialogue with doctors and the government’s dedication to resolving long-standing issues for the welfare of staff and uninterrupted patient care.
