OPD services in Punjab hospitals hit as govt doctors go on three-day strike

THE government doctors in Punjab on Monday began a three-day strike and suspended outpatient department (OPD) services for three hours across the state to press for their demands, including reinstatement of the assured career progression scheme and adequate security measures for healthcare workers.

- HARPREET BAJWA

The protest, being held under the banner of the Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) Association, will continue until September 11 in district and subdivisional hospitals and community health centres, said the protesting doctors.

Many patients visiting these government hospitals were inconvenienced as the OPD services remained suspended from 8 am to 11 am. However, emergency services continued.

The OPDS of several government hospitals across the state were full to the brim, and patients kept waiting for doctors to reach their consultation rooms. However, several patients had to leave without consulting the doctors.