Punjab Hospitals Hire Private Doctors Amidst Specialist Crisis

Punjab's health system is grappling with a severe deficit of medical specialists, prompting the government to engage private practitioners. Out of 2,098 sanctioned positions for specialists, only about 1,000 are currently filled, leaving a significant gap in essential medical services. The state has not conducted regular recruitment since 2022, exacerbating the issue.

The health department has announced the need-based empanelment of up to 300 specialists for district and sub-divisional hospitals. These doctors will be compensated on a per-patient basis, receiving ₹100 for OPD/IPD services, with additional rates for surgeries and procedures. This approach aims to offer immediate support where specialists are most needed.

This initiative is designed to alleviate the strain on government hospitals and improve patient care, especially in districts where a single specialist may be serving the entire population. While the empanelment offers a solution, questions linger about the long-term strategy for permanent specialist recruitment.