New Rules for Govt Doctors — No Late Arrivals, No Early Exit

The Medical Education Minister, Sharan Prakash Patil, has announced that Government doctors must strictly adhere to their working hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. He emphasized that no doctor should engage in private practice during these hours. Addressing the Legislative Council on Monday, he stated that strict measures have been implemented to ensure compliance.

Monitoring Absenteeism and Enforcing Discipline

The Minister responded to concerns raised by Congress member Balkees Banu regarding doctors being unavailable at government hospitals during working hours. He confirmed that instructions have been issued to hospital administrators to monitor doctors and prevent absenteeism.
Previously, government doctors were required to work from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., but now the schedule has been extended to 4 p.m. Reports indicate that some doctors arrive late or leave early, reducing the availability of medical professionals in public hospitals. To address this, a biometric attendance system has been introduced. Doctors and hospital staff must now record their attendance four times a day—at 9 a.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m. Salaries will be processed based on these records, and disciplinary action will be taken against those who fail to comply with the new rules.

Expansion of Bone Marrow Biopsy Centres

In addition to addressing absenteeism, Mr. Patil highlighted the increasing cases of childhood cancer in the state. To improve cancer diagnosis and treatment, Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy (BMAT) centres will soon be established in Mysuru and Hubballi.
Responding to a query from Congress member Umashree, the Minister shared that the government aims to expand these facilities to all hoblis (administrative divisions) across the state. This initiative will enhance access to crucial diagnostic services for cancer patients, particularly children.

Ensuring Better Healthcare Services

With these reforms, the government aims to improve healthcare services by ensuring doctors are available during designated hours and expanding specialized medical facilities. The strict enforcement of work schedules and the introduction of new healthcare centres reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening public health infrastructure in Karnataka.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.