Karnataka Fights Doctor Shortage: 200 Hired, 1000 Contracted

To address a critical shortage of medical personnel, the Karnataka government is set to fill 200 vacant doctor positions through direct recruitment and onboard approximately 1,000 doctors on a contract basis. The state faces a deficit of 1,290 MBBS doctors, 924 specialists, and 892 nurses, prompting a prioritized action plan for recruitment. Approval from the Finance Department has been secured for these crucial hires, with the Karnataka Examinations Authority managing the direct recruitment process.

Doctors with MBBS or postgraduate qualifications can apply for contractual roles directly to District Health Officers. A notable proposal suggests regularizing contract doctors who serve satisfactorily for five years, based on their service record, without requiring further recruitment exams. Furthermore, the government is considering allowing MBBS doctors to pursue postgraduate studies after completing five years of service. Contractual doctors will earn monthly salaries ranging from ₹60,000 for MBBS to ₹1.10 lakh for postgraduate doctors, with an additional ₹15,000 incentive for service in remote or difficult areas.

In disease management, health centers in KFD-affected districts, including Shivamogga, Sirsi, and Sagar, are directed to maintain adequate medicine stocks and sufficient anti-snake venom. Treatment for snakebite and KFD is available free of charge. Expert committees are being formed for eye care, mental health, and oral health to assess and recommend policy improvements. The department is also recruiting 400 pharmacists, 400 nurses, and 400 laboratory technicians. Tenders have been floated for over 200 medicines to resolve drug shortages within three months, and a helpline is planned for patients to report such issues.