Don’t make PG doctors suffer

Complaints about the heavy workload, low stipend, and difficult living conditions of postgraduate (PG) doctors working in government medical colleges in the state have been heard for a long time. Even though these issues have been brought to the attention of the government and authorities, no proper solution has been found so far. This situation can create serious problems in the healthcare system. Healthcare plays a key role in Kerala’s social and cultural development, and it is also one of the main strengths of the much-praised Kerala development model. Doctors are central to maintaining the quality and efficiency of healthcare services.

In medical colleges, PG doctors play a very important role in patient care. They are doctors who have completed MBBS and are undergoing further specialised training. They are among the best students who have cleared tough entrance exams to pursue higher studies. Often, especially at night when senior doctors may not be present, PG doctors are responsible for handling patients with great care and alertness. Though their duty hours are officially around 10 hours a day, in reality, they often work beyond fixed timings. They check patients, recommend treatment, and keep track of their condition, often skipping meals and rest to do so.

Considering the nature of their work, the pressure they face, and the impact it has on society, this issue needs to be addressed seriously. Their physical and mental stress can also affect the quality of healthcare. Therefore, their stipend should be reviewed and improved based on a proper evaluation. At a time when even daily wage workers earn around Rs 1200- Rs 1300 per day, it is unfair that PG doctors, who undergo intense study and work tirelessly, receive comparatively low stipends. The situation of house surgeons is even worse. It is unfortunate that their stipend is sometimes lower than the salary of a clerk with minimal qualifications.

Doctors perform irreplaceable work. They diagnose diseases, understand complications, explain conditions to patients, listen carefully, and take steps to prevent illnesses. They also coordinate with nurses and other medical staff and must treat patients with compassion and care. In many ways, they take on multiple roles in a single profession to protect not just individual patients but the health of society as a whole. PG doctors and house surgeons are at the frontline of this system. The government and concerned authorities must recognise their importance and take urgent steps to improve their pay and working conditions.