Andhra Pradesh: High-level panel holds talks with junior doctors’ body on demands

A high-level committee of the Andhra Pradesh Health Department held its first round of talks with the representatives of the Junior Doctors’ Association (JUDA) on Thursday, following directions from the Andhra Pradesh High Court.

A statement issued by the department said the committee discussed six demands raised by JUDA and assured the association that there was no need for concern over five of them.

It said another round of discussions would be held on the remaining demand concerning an increase in stipends.

The meeting was chaired by Health and Medical Department Secretary G. Veerapandian and attended by the Director of Medical Education A. Vishnuvardhan and Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences Registrar Sudheer. JUDA was represented by its president Eshwar, Bhargav and other members.

On the demand to increase the retirement age of professors, the government said no policy decision had been taken so far and that the matter would be discussed with JUDA representatives when necessary.

On the recruitment of non-clinical doctors, Mr. Veerapandian said the government was following National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines. The guidelines permit up to 30% of posts to be filled by candidates with MSc, PhD and other eligible qualifications, while only 11.05 % of posts had so far been filled through this route.

Regarding prescribed working hours and basic facilities for junior doctors, the Secretary said the DME had already issued instructions to superintendents of all hospitals. The government would take action against superintendents who failed to implement the directions, he said.

The committee said the issue of stipends for senior residents would be examined separately, while clarifying that senior residents do not come under the jurisdiction of JUDA.

On stipends for interns, postgraduate and super-speciality doctors, the government proposed a 10% increase for interns and a 3% increase for PG and super-speciality doctors at present.

From next year, stipends would be increased by 3% annually. JUDA representatives, however, sought a 13% increase. The Secretary said another round of discussions would be held to consider the demand.