In response to the rape and murder of a resident doctor in Kolkata, the medical strike in Rajasthan has intensified. Resident doctors, who have been on a four-day work boycott, have now been joined by doctors from private hospitals and clinics across the state.

Private Medical Services to Shut Down

On Saturday, August 8, 2024, all private medical services in Rajasthan, including emergency services, outpatient services, and operations, will be completely shut down. This shutdown is part of the ongoing protest. The Joint Action Committee of Serving Doctors and the Rajasthan Medical Teachers' Association has also announced a two-hour work boycott from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

Impact on Medical Services

The strike has already caused significant disruptions. In MB Hospital, Udaipur, OPD services were disrupted, with senior doctors taking over most tasks. At Sawai Man Singh Hospital in Jaipur, the number of OPD patients has decreased by up to 40%. In Kota, around 50 surgeries have been postponed. The boycott's effects are also visible at Jaipuria Hospital, where OPD services and tests that rely on resident doctors have been severely impacted.

Government Response and Emergency Measures

The Additional Chief Secretary of the Medical and Health Department has held discussions with medical organizations, promising increased security measures, including more security guards, CCTV cameras, and enhanced police patrols.

Despite the strike, emergency services and essential basic health services in government hospitals will continue to operate smoothly. In case of any emergency, the public can contact the control room at 0141-2225624 and 0141-2225000 for assistance.

Doctors Unions Stand Firm

Dr. Vijay Kapoor, President of the Private Hospital and Nursing Homes Society, has confirmed that the strike will proceed as planned. Dr. Manohar Siwal, President of the Jaipur Association of Resident Doctors, stated that the boycott will continue until the perpetrators are arrested. Dr. Pawan Singhal, President of the Medical College Teachers Association of Rajasthan, added that doctors associated with the association will provide services while wearing black armbands as a sign of protest.

Source: Rajasthan Patrika