Bihar's Doctors Embark on a Three-Day Strike, Halting OPD Services
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Synopsis
Doctors in Bihar have initiated a three-day strike due to unresolved grievances regarding salaries, safety, and staffing shortages, leading to widespread OPD service closures. The strike, organized by the Bihar Health Services Association, has raised alarm over access to healthcare for vulnerable populations, particularly in rural areas.
Key Takeaways
- Three-day strike initiated by Bihar doctors.
- OPD services closed statewide.
- Concerns over salaries, safety, and staff shortages.
- Emergency services remain operational.
- Potential escalation of the strike if demands are unmet.
Patna, March 27 (NationPress) Physicians in Bihar's government hospitals initiated a three-day strike starting Thursday, resulting in the suspension of Outpatient Department (OPD) services statewide due to the government's failure to address their grievances regarding salary, safety, and staff shortages, among several other issues.
The strike is anticipated to create considerable hardship for patients, especially those in rural regions reliant on government healthcare services.
The Bihar Health Services Association (BHSA) organized the strike in response to matters such as biometric attendance, administrative harassment, and staff shortages.
Nonetheless, the strike is confined to OPD closures, while emergency and trauma services will maintain normal operations.
Dr. Vinay Kumar, the spokesperson for BHSA, stated that multiple requests to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his administration regarding crucial issues like doctor safety, salary disputes, posting in home districts, and lack of basic facilities have gone unanswered.
"The government has ignored our requests, compelling doctors to withdraw from work. We have resolved to strike for three days starting Thursday," Dr. Kumar remarked.
Doctors referenced an incident in Sheohar, where they reportedly faced mistreatment during a meeting with a District Magistrate, which has added to their frustration.
The strike has resulted in the cancellation of OPD services across all medical colleges, Sadar hospitals, referral hospitals, Community Health Centres (CHCs), and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in all 38 districts of Bihar.
Patients with scheduled surgeries and treatments will have to either reschedule or adjust their appointments once the strike concludes.
"Disadvantaged patients, particularly from rural areas, will bear the brunt since they cannot afford private healthcare," noted a hospital representative.
The BHSA has indicated that if the government does not provide a solid resolution by March 29, the strike may escalate further.
"If our demands remain unmet, we will amplify the strike across the state," Dr. Kumar added.
Given that government hospitals are critical for rural healthcare, the ongoing strike has sparked concerns regarding access to essential medical services for economically disadvantaged groups.
