As doctors’ strike continues, hospitals wear deserted look

The government healthcare centres wore a deserted look as doctors went on the strike on the call given by the Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA).

Though beneficiaries registered at the Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment (OOAT) clinics got their daily dose of de-addiction without any delay, those getting weekly supply on recommendation of psychiatrists could be seen arguing with officials concerned.

As the PCMSA had announced to suspend OPDs from 8 am to 11 am for the first three days of the protest, patients continued visiting hospitals. “Now, when doctors have stopped attending the OPDs for the entire day, patients have almost stopped coming for minor health issues,” said a lab technician, adding that there had been a steep decline in the number of samples collected.

Justifying their move, the doctors said they would continue to protest as long as their demands would not be accepted. “Unlike earlier when our leaders used to call off the strike after receiving assurance, this time the struggle will be taken to a conclusive end,” said an SMO.

Notification regarding resumption of Assured Career Progression Scheme, payment of pending CPC arrears and round-the-clock security at all healthcare centres are major demands of the protesting doctors.