Health Department implements strict entry rules for doctors, mandates written approval for access

The Health Department has imposed new entry restrictions for doctors, requiring them to obtain written permission from their respective medical colleges before entering the department’s premises. This new rule, communicated via social media messaging apps by the Special Secretary for Medical Education, follows concerns over doctors frequently visiting the Health Department during hours meant for their duties at medical colleges.

Under the new protocol, doctors must secure a written approval slip from the head of their medical college or department in order to enter the Health Department. The approval slip will serve as the official authorization to visit the department, limiting access to those situations that are deemed work-related or necessary for official functions. The Health Department emphasized that this directive is part of a broader effort to streamline operations and ensure that visits are purposeful, preventing unnecessary congestion at the premises.

The entry restrictions come after ongoing reports of doctors leaving their duties at medical colleges to visit the Health Department without prior approval. This has been seen as disruptive to the overall functioning of the healthcare system. The Health Department has made it clear that it aims to reduce the frequency of these visits to maintain a focused, efficient working environment, where all personnel are present at their assigned locations during work hours.

The new rules come in the wake of the Abhaya incident, which led to widespread protests among junior doctors. Last month, junior doctors staged a large-scale protest in front of the Health Department, demanding justice for the death of a fellow doctor, Abhaya, and raising concerns over safety, working conditions, and the treatment of medical professionals. As part of these protests, several junior doctors staged a sit-in and attempted to block access to the department. These demonstrations were part of a broader call for reforms within the healthcare sector, particularly regarding the safety and rights of doctors.

In response to these protests and the growing unrest among the medical community, the Health Department introduced the new entry guidelines. The directive specifies that only doctors with a legitimate work-related reason for visiting the Health Department will be allowed entry, and they must present valid proof of approval. Medical associations and doctor unions, however, have voiced their concerns, with some fearing the new rules may be used as a form of surveillance or control.