Complete suspension of OPDs: Patients suffer as Punjab govt doctors intensify strike

The Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) doctors have completely suspended Out Patient Department (OPD) services, crippling healthcare at government hospitals, as their strike entered its second phase today. The strike, which began on September 9, had initially seen OPDs run for three hours from 11 am to 2 pm, but now doctors have announced a complete suspension of OPDs and elective surgeries, except for caesarean sections.

Patients faced significant difficulties at Civil Hospital, where they were unable to consult doctors. Some waited until 11 am, hoping OPD would open, but ultimately left without being seen. OPDs at district hospital, sub-divisional hospitals, and community health centres remained completely suspended today.

Ramesh Kumar, who had come to the hospital for a medical check-up required for his recruitment, was among those affected. “The doctors are on strike and not conducting medical examinations. I need to submit the certificate for my job, and only a government doctor can do that. The strike will cost me dearly, as I need to submit the certificate within a week.”

Kokila, another patient from village Sunet, was feeling helpless due to extreme pain. “I have a stone in my gallbladder, and the doctor has advised me to get it removed. I came for consultation today, but nobody is listening, and there is total chaos. Nobody is ready to give me an appointment for surgery.”

Some patients had travelled long distances, only to be disappointed. Rajan, from the industrial area, said, “I will now visit a private doctor, as doctors here are not seeing patients.”

The unresolved issues of the doctors include stalled Assured Career Progressions, pending 6th CPC arrears, and security at the workplace, among other demands. “The cabinet sub-committee, during a meeting with doctors, acknowledged that our demands are legitimate and unanimously approved the restoration of the stalled Assured Career Progression (ACP) to the PCMS cadre. However, we will not return to work until the government issues it in writing,” said Dr Akhil Sareen, president of Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA).