Kerala: Govt doctors end indefinite strike; out-patient time extended
Government doctors in Kerala, who were on an indefinite strike since April 13 to protest against the extension of out-patient (OP) time in government hospitals, withdrew their stir on Monday night after discussions with state Health Minister KK Shylaja. Kerala Government Medical Officers Association (KGMOA), which was spearheading the agitation, also agreed to work according to extended OP timings (6 pm), the minister said.
What is Ardram Mission?
The protesting doctors also agreed to give their full support to the "Ardram Mission" where three doctors will be appointed in each family health center, Shylaja said. The "Ardram Mission" envisages basic facilities to all hospitals in the state and making government health centers patient-friendly.
Why did the government suspend a doctor?
The minister said alternate arrangements would be made when doctors go on leave and reserve team of doctors would-be prepared. On the KGMOA's plea to revoke the suspension of a doctor, she said if he submits an apology, the request can be considered. The government suspended a doctor at a Palakkad health center for refusing to attend work following an increase in OP timings.
Deceased woman's family blames striking doctors for her death
In Wynad, family members of a 62-year-old tribal woman, who had come to the district hospital for treatment on Sunday and died Monday morning at her home, alleged proper treatment was not provided due to the strike. CPI (M) workers had taken out a march to the hospital alleging that the striking doctors were responsible for her death and demanded action.
Tribal woman was suffering from respiratory infection: Doctor
However, Kerala Government Medical Officers Association (KGMOA) Secretary, Dr. V Jitesh said she was suffering from a respiratory infection and she was given medicines and sent back home yesterday. She died at her home, he said. The body was brought to the hospital today and the association has suggested that autopsy be performed to find out if there was any negligence.
