Posted By :  Admin1

The Kerala Government Medical Officers’ Association (KGMOA) has strongly opposed the state government’s decision to extend the working hours of Community Health Centres from 9 am to 6 pm. The association said the move was taken without proper consultation and would place additional pressure on doctors who are already working under heavy workload conditions.

According to KGMOA, Community Health Centres are not comparable to Family Health Centres, as they handle more responsibilities but operate with limited staff. Many CHCs function with just three doctors, even though official guidelines recommend higher staffing levels. The association noted that the government has failed to address this shortage before announcing longer working hours.

Under the revised schedule, only two doctors, apart from the officer in charge, will be available to handle outpatient services in the evening. KGMOA warned that this arrangement could result in situations where only one doctor manages patients during busy morning hours, leading to delays, patient dissatisfaction, and increased stress on medical staff.

The association demanded that the government withdraw the order immediately and ensure adequate manpower before implementing any changes. KGMOA leaders also cautioned that doctors, who often struggle to take even their eligible leave due to staff shortages, will strongly oppose any decision that further increases their burden.