Bhubaneswar: OMSA Suspends OPD Services Amid Ongoing Strike

Announcement of Service Suspension

The Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA), which represents government doctors in the state, has confirmed the suspension of Outpatient Department (OPD) services at government hospitals and National Health Mission (NHM) activities for one hour on December 26, 2025, from 10 am to 11 am. This decision comes as doctors continue their indefinite strike, despite recent discussions with the state government showing promise.

Concerns Over Government Response

OMSA officials expressed discontent, noting that while discussions with the state government have been positive, no written assurance has been provided regarding the fulfillment of their demands. They were informed that a committee will be established to review these issues, as reported by Odisha Bytes.

Meeting with Health Minister

On Thursday, Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling met with OMSA representatives in light of the doctors’ ongoing grievances, which they claim have been largely ignored by the state government. An official statement indicated that the talks were constructive, with the government committing to address the concerns raised by the doctors.

Government’s Appeal for Cooperation

During the meeting, Minister Mahaling assured OMSA that a committee would be formed to examine their demands and promised appropriate action. He urged the association to avoid agitation and to prioritize public health needs.

OMSA’s Decision to Continue Strike

Despite the government’s assurances, OMSA has opted to proceed with their planned agitation, as reported by Odisha Bytes. Their primary demand is the prompt implementation of the Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP) system, which facilitates timely promotions for government doctors.

Additional Demands from OMSA

Beyond the DACP system, OMSA’s demands include a KBK exit policy, transparent transfer procedures, cadre restructuring, regular departmental promotions, enhanced safety and security for healthcare professionals, health insurance, and improved basic amenities. They are also calling for reforms in the Performance Appraisal Report (PAR), cleaner administrative practices, uniform OPD and emergency services, and inclusion in policy consultations.

Future Actions and Protests

Other significant issues raised by OMSA include the need for enhancements in the Capital Hospital, revising allowances, regularizing ad-hoc doctors, strengthening healthcare institutions, and ensuring justice for veteran doctors. Medic Helpline previously reported that government doctors under OMSA plan to halt OPD services for at least one hour and suspend NHM-related work starting December 26, 2025, followed by a potential full strike in January 2026.

Long-standing Grievances

The association highlighted that doctors have been waiting for over a decade for their demands to be met, yet no substantial action has been taken by the government. In protest against what they describe as false assurances from the government, doctors will suspend OPD services for a minimum of one hour. They have also warned that the agitation may escalate in the coming days, including the prospect of mass resignations.