Punjab Government Doctors Suspend OPD Services to Demand Career Progression

Punjab government doctors will suspend outpatient department (OPD) services for three days starting Monday to demand assured career progression and other measures. The protest, led by the Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) Association, aims to press for the implementation of promised safety measures and timely promotions which remain unmet. A complete shutdown is threatened if demands are not addressed in an upcoming meeting.

In a significant development, government doctors in Punjab announced the suspension of outpatient department (OPD) services across the state for three days to press for their demands, including assured career progression.

Operating under the Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) Association, the doctors stated that the OPD services will be affected for three hours daily until Wednesday at district and sub-divisional hospitals, as well as community health centres.

The doctors argue that despite repeated meetings, assurances on safety measures and timely promotions by the health ministry have not been fulfilled, prompting the ongoing protest.

PCMS Association president Dr. Akhil Sarin revealed the decision to suspend medical services comes after an appeal from the health minister and an upcoming meeting with the finance minister.

Dr. Sarin emphasized that while emergency services will continue, the lack of progress on their demands has strained their trust in government assurances.

Senior members of the association warned that the government's inaction could dismantle the public healthcare system and drive experienced doctors to seek better opportunities in neighboring states.

The PCMS Association further cautioned that a complete strike would be inevitable if substantial outcomes are not achieved from the September 11 meeting.

(With inputs from agencies.)