SUBHASH MISHRA
Ranchi, Jan 28: The Health Minister, Dr. Irfan Ansari, assured the Jharkhand State Health Services Association (JSHSA) delegation that the recently issued notification on the double OPD system at government hospitals will be withdrawn soon. The minister made this assurance during a meeting with the newly elected JSHSA members on Monday evening.
Concerns Raised by JSHSA Delegation
Led by newly elected president Dr. Bimlesh Singh and secretary Dr. Thakur Mritunjay Kumar Singh, the JSHSA delegation discussed the issues arising from the double OPD system, which requires doctors to be present for two shifts—9 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 5 pm.
The delegation expressed concerns that this would lead to gaps in doctor availability, forcing patients to seek private care during the three-hour break between shifts.
The delegation that met the Health Minister also included newly elected Vice-President Dr. Mossarat Yamini, JSHSA patron Dr. PP Sah, and Treasurer Dr. Stephen Xess.
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Impact on Patient Care and Hospital Services
The JSHSA members highlighted that the current OPD system from 9 am to 3 pm works efficiently, with emergency services operating 24/7.
JSHSA office bearers stated that the double OPD system would cause issues for patients, as there would be no doctors available from 1 pm to 5 pm. As a result, patients would be forced to seek treatment at private nursing homes during this gap.
They warned that introducing the double OPD system would strain resources, as hospitals are already facing shortages of doctors and staff. Both general and emergency services could be adversely affected, leading to complications in patient care.
“Currently, the OPD at Sadar Hospital operates from 9 am to 3 pm, with emergency services available 24/7. This system ensures that patients receive continuous care. However, with hospitals already facing a shortage of doctors and para-health staff, introducing the double OPD system would disrupt both general and emergency services,” said Dr. Bimlesh Singh and JSHSA Secretary Dr. Thakur Mritunjay Kumar Singh.
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Health Minister to Attend JSHSA Installation Ceremony
Dr. Irfan Ansari has also agreed to be the chief guest at the installation ceremony of the newly elected JSHSA committee, scheduled for February 16.
Secretary Dr. Thakur Mritunjay Kumar Singh shared that the delegation visited the minister for two main purposes: to invite him to the ceremony and to discuss the double OPD issue. Both requests were accepted by the minister.
