Chandigarh: Haryana Government Hospitals Resume Normal Operations
Doctors End Indefinite Strike
Government hospitals across Haryana have returned to their regular operations following the conclusion of an indefinite strike by doctors represented by the Haryana Civil Medical Services Association (HCMSA). The strike was called off after the state government provided written assurances addressing the doctors’ concerns.
Key Issues Addressed
The government’s commitments included a temporary halt to the direct recruitment of Specialist Medical Officers (SMOs) and a review of the Assured Career Progression (ACP) structure. The strike, which began on Monday, involved over 3,000 doctors demanding a revised ACP framework and the revocation of the SMO recruitment process.
Government Response to the Strike
After four days of the strike, the government agreed to evaluate the demands promptly. It confirmed that the direct recruitment of SMOs would be suspended for the time being. Additionally, the government plans to review service rules from other states before finalizing any amendments.
Resolution of the ACP Issue
The ACP issue was addressed when the doctors consented to pursue incentives under the Ayushman Bharat scheme instead. A committee has been established to develop the incentive framework, with a report expected within 30 days. The government has assured that these demands will be implemented.
Meeting Details
The decision came after a two-hour meeting involving Health Minister Arti Singh Rao, senior health officials, and HCMSA representatives. Following the meeting, Director General of Health Services (DGHS) Manish Bansal stated, “The ACP could not be implemented, and a panel would be formed for the Ayushman incentive instead.”
Structure of Incentives
A health official informed TOI that doctors would receive incentives through the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The committee’s purpose is to define how these benefits will be structured and delivered, with recommendations anticipated within 30 days.
Committee Formation and Future Steps
HCMSA president Dr. Rajesh Khyalia explained that the proposed Ayushman incentive scheme would be developed by a committee examining similar schemes from other states and guidelines from the National Health Authority. This panel will include a member from the doctors’ association and is expected to submit its proposal within a month for implementation.
Government Actions During the Strike
During the strike, the Haryana government invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA), which prohibits healthcare workers from striking for six months. The Director General of Health Services had also announced that salaries would be withheld under the “No Work, No Pay” policy. Despite these measures, the doctors persisted with their indefinite strike. Following the meeting, it was confirmed that days of absence during the strike would be treated as leave.
Concerns Raised by HCMSA
HCMSA general secretary Dr. Anil Yadav voiced concerns regarding the posting of newly appointed medical officers in district hospitals, which could affect their eligibility for ACP. It was agreed that no medical officer would be denied the first ACP benefits due to their posting in urban facilities unless they were specifically sent to rural areas by the government.