Kerala Government Doctors Oppose Extended Working Hours

Concerns Over Increased Workload

The government doctors in Kerala have expressed strong opposition to the state government’s decision to extend the working hours of Community Health Centres (CHC) from 9 am to 6 pm without adding to the current staff levels. The Kerala Government Medical Officers’ Association (KGMOA) has labeled this decision as impractical and unjust, arguing that it fails to account for the realities on the ground.

Impact on Healthcare Workers

According to a recent report by PTI, the KGMOA stated that the new schedule imposes an unfair burden on doctors and other health workers who are already stretched thin. The association emphasized that Community Health Centres operate under significantly different conditions than Family Health Centres and carry broader responsibilities.

Staffing Concerns

The KGMOA highlighted that existing government regulations concerning minimum staff levels are not being adhered to, with no new positions created in these centres in recent years. Many Community Health Centres reportedly function with only three doctors. Extending outpatient department (OPD) hours to the evening would require only two doctors, alongside the charge officer, to manage the OPD until 6 pm. This scenario could result in only one doctor being available during peak morning hours.

Quality of Care at Risk

The association warned that in already crowded centres, the presence of a single doctor in the OPD could lead to dissatisfaction, conflicts, and a decline in the quality of patient care.

Call for Action

The KGMOA has demanded that the government retract the revised order and ensure sufficient human resources are in place before implementing such changes. The association has also indicated that it will vigorously resist any actions that further burden doctors, who are already unable to take their entitled leave due to overwhelming workloads.

Leadership Statement

The statement opposing the revised working hours was signed by KGMOA president Dr. Sunil P K and general secretary Dr. Jobin G Joseph.