Protesting doctors to provide OPD services outside Health Ministry today
What's the story
The Resident Doctors Association (RDA) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has announced its decision to offer elective outpatient department (OPD) services outside Nirman Bhawan, which houses the Ministry of Health. This move is part of their ongoing protest against the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor from Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The services will be available from 11:00am on Monday.
Strike continuation
AIIMS doctors to continue strike amid unmet demands
In a press release, the RDA said the decision to provide OPD services outside Nirman Bhawan was made after discussions with the Action Committee for Central Protection Act and RDA AIIMS's general body. At the meeting, the group unanimously agreed to continue their strike as their demands remain unaddressed. These include halting academic activities, elective OPDs, ward and OT services while maintaining emergency services, ICUs, emergency procedures, and emergency OT.
Security concerns
AIIMS doctors urge government to ensure healthcare professionals' safety
The RDA AIIMS has emphasized that their decision to offer services outside Nirman Bhawan is in line with their Hippocratic oath and a bid to highlight the lack of security for healthcare professionals nationwide. They have urged the government to consider an urgent central ordinance for the safety and security of healthcare workers and institutes. The association has also requested authorities to make necessary arrangements for these outpatient services.
Committee formation
Union Health Ministry to form committee for healthcare professionals' safety
Earlier, the Union Health Ministry announced plans to form a committee that will suggest measures to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals. The ministry invited representatives from all stakeholders, including state governments, to share their suggestions with this committee. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Sunday took suo motu cognizance of the brutal rape and murder in Kolkata. The case is scheduled for hearing on Tuesday.