Doctors’ protest over transfer policy disrupts OP services briefly
HYDERABAD: Outpatient services were halted for an hour in government hospitals as the Telangana Government Doctors Association (TGDA) held a protest against the transfer of doctors, allegedly carried out in violation of government norms and without adhering to Government Order (GO) 38.
The association clarified that services would continue without interruption from Saturday.
Following the conclusion of protests at Gandhi Hospital, Osmania General Hospital and Niloufer Hospital, normalcy was restored and activities resumed. Doctors restarted procedures and treatments, while clinics and medical stores were fully functional despite overcrowding. Patients were admitted for their respective treatments and previously scheduled surgeries.
Dr Ramesh, founder‑president of TGDA, said doctors boycotted OP and elective services, except emergencies, in all government hospitals. He added that over 500 doctors participated from 9 am to 12 pm. “The meeting was held with the health minister and principal secretary and all problems and demands were resolved,” he said.
Doctors from Osmania Hospital claimed they had repeatedly complained to the government and ministers about violations of guidelines under GO 38.
On behalf of TGDA, members demanded that GO 38 be implemented in full. Expressing distress, they said: “We are working hard every single day for this state but not getting any benefits in return. The chief minister and the health minister of Telangana issued a GO to implement but the health officials need to follow it.” They questioned the authorities, saying: “This is complete injustice. Are we in colonial times? Are we supposed to be suppressed?”
However, the Health Department said OP and IP services, as well as surgeries, were continuing as usual in all government hospitals. Officials maintained that the transfer process was being carried out transparently through an online system.
“The deadline for submitting options for transfers in the Health Department is 5 pm today. All eligible employees who have not yet submitted their options should do so before 5 pm,” said Dr Narendra Kumar, director, Medical Education Department.
