NLA discusses private practices, NPA and superannuation of doctors
Morung Express News
Kohima | September 22
Apart from the issue medical negligence, the Nagaland Legislative Assembly on September 22 discussed other health related issues such as private practices, Non Practising Allowance and superannuation of doctors.
In recent years the health care industry has become a profiteering business, viewed MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu, while initiating the discussion on ‘medical negligence.’
Many private hospitals have sprung up without adhering to infrastructural specifications and safety norms which may be termed as ‘Infrastructural Negligence,’ he observed.
Nienu noted that government and private hospitals in the state operate without the required medical equipments, which has greatly hampered the health care delivery system and has compelled many patients to seek treatment outside the state.
Compounding the existing problems, he stated that the State health Department has also messed up in the posting of medical doctors citing an instance where a doctor specialised in anaesthesia has been posted to a hospital where there is no surgeon.
Besides, he pointed out that most of the government doctors are practicing privately with numerous complaints by the patients of preferential treatments and more care in these private practices.
“Doctors have to realise that they are duty bound to look and treat their patients very carefully as they are being paid whether it be in Private or Government hospitals, they are not doing any charitable work” he commented.
On NPA
Minister YM Yollow also commented that while the government is spending about 8 cr towards NPA, the doctors should be conscious of ethical practices.
He also disputed the random transfer and posting of medical doctors and asserted that transfer and posting should be done on war footing in a ‘balance and need-based’ and not otherwise.
MLA Dr Ngangshi K Ao viewed this as a ‘dereliction of one’s duty and a serious problem’ in the health department.
Terming NPA issue as a ‘tough nut to crack’, Ao remarked that a strong political is needed to root out this very issue.
On superannuation
While the doctors in the state under the banner of Nagaland In-service Doctors Association (NIDA) have been pursuing for superannuation, members of the NLA have suggested on the implementation of the same.
Stating that Nagaland is the only state in the country to implement this, Dr Neikiesalie Kire said “doctors should be given a chance.’
Citing an instance where an officer has reportedly told him “PM Modi has not given in writing to implement superannuation, Kire viewed this as a ‘negative way to suppress our own people.”
Considering the years of studies and practice by the doctors to complete their degree and specialty, Yollow also concurred that it is fair and just that superannuation be granted to the doctors.
