Chandigarh Health Department Expands Specialist Services

New Initiative for Primary Healthcare

The health department of Chandigarh has launched a new initiative to enhance specialist medical services in peripheral areas by hiring doctors on a slot basis for its primary health centres, also referred to as Urban Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (UAAMs). This effort aims to strengthen primary healthcare and improve access to specialized treatment for urban and semi-urban populations.

Specialists Empanelled

According to recent reports, seven specialists from various fields, including medicine, surgery, pediatrics, ophthalmology, ENT, psychiatry, and dermatology, have been successfully empanelled. Additionally, two more specialists in general surgery and medicine are anticipated to join following walk-in interviews. These specialists will provide services at UAAMs located in areas such as Badheri, Raipur Kalan, Manimajra, Sarangpur, Behlana, Kaimbwal, and Sectors 25, 33, 39, 52, and Palsoea.

Addressing Past Recruitment Challenges

The health department previously faced difficulties in attracting medical officers and specialists under the National Health Mission. However, the introduction of the slot-based hiring model, as part of the Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, has garnered a positive response. Specialists are engaged on an honorarium basis, earning Rs 2,000 per two-hour slot, typically working two slots per day according to a monthly duty roster.

Flexible Work Environment

Officials have noted that the new model effectively addresses previous challenges in retaining medical officers and specialists, even after salary increases to match those in neighboring states. This approach offers specialists flexible working hours and a manageable workload, ensuring that primary health centres have consistent access to specialized consultations.

Positive Feedback from Health Officials

Dr. Suman Singh, Director of Health Services, shared with Hindustan Times that the positive response is attributed to the limited nature of the roles, which do not involve extensive paperwork, administrative duties, or long hours. As primary health centres serve as the initial point of contact for comprehensive care, the addition of these specialist services aims to alleviate overcrowding in civil and district hospitals.

Benefits for Patients

This initiative is expected to enable patients to receive specialized care for minor ailments closer to their homes, ultimately reducing out-of-pocket expenses.