The Karnataka government has introduced strict rules to prevent government doctors from engaging in private practice during duty hours. According to Karnataka Medical Education Minister, doctors working in government hospitals must not take up private practice during working hours under any circumstances.
Revised Working Hours and Attendance System
The working hours of government doctors have been extended from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. to 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. to ensure better availability of medical professionals in government hospitals.
To monitor attendance and curb absenteeism, the government has also introduced a biometric attendance system where doctors and hospital staff must mark their attendance four times a day at 9 a.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m.
Salary Based on Attendance
To enforce compliance, doctors’ salaries will be processed based on their attendance recorded through the biometric system. Doctors who fail to meet these attendance requirements will face disciplinary action.
Addressing Complaints of Absenteeism
The new rules were announced in response to concerns raised in the Legislative Council about government doctors working elsewhere during duty hours. Many patients have complained that doctors are unavailable in government hospitals as they are engaged in private practice.
The Medical Education Minister has instructed hospital heads to monitor doctors and ensure they are present in the hospital throughout their duty hours.
Improving Government Healthcare Services
Along with the new regulations, the government is also focusing on improving the quality of healthcare in government hospitals. Steps are being taken to:
✔ Ensure timely OPD services for patients.
✔ Improve medical facilities in government hospitals.
✔ Prevent shortages of medical staff and resources.
Background on Private Practice Ban for Government Doctors
This move is part of a long-term effort to reduce private practice by government doctors. In 2023, the Karnataka Administrative Reforms Commission-2 (KARC-2) recommended a complete ban on private practice by government doctors.
The commission suggested that banning private practice would help improve the efficiency of government hospitals by ensuring that doctors are available for longer working hours and even evening OPD services.
What This Means for Doctors and Patients
✅ For Government Doctors: They must strictly follow new working hours and attendance rules, failing which they may face salary deductions or disciplinary action.
✅ For Patients: This initiative aims to ensure that doctors are available in government hospitals during duty hours, leading to better access to healthcare services.
Adapting to New Healthcare Reforms
Government doctors in Karnataka must adhere to the new regulations to maintain a fair and transparent healthcare system. Patients should also be aware of these rules to ensure they receive timely medical attention.
📢 Doctors, stay updated on policy changes! Ensure compliance with the new working hours and biometric attendance system.
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