BENGALURU: Government hospitals across Karnataka are struggling with a shortage of nearly 2,000 doctors, with vacancies remaining unfilled, particularly in rural areas.
Key Points:
- Current Shortage: As of June, there are 744 specialist vacancies, 613 general duty medical officers, and 558 other medical professionals, including special medical officers. Additionally, 25 out of 425 dental posts are vacant.
- Challenges: Efforts by Health Commissioner Sivakumar KB to fill these positions are ongoing, but attracting candidates to the public sector remains challenging. Doctors in rural areas face dual roles as healthcare providers and administrators, leading to burnout and a decline in clinical skills.
- Impact: The shortage and high workload lead to extended shifts, delayed patient care, and increased complaints from patients about insufficient medical attention.
- Conditions: Substandard living conditions, poor infrastructure, and limited amenities in rural health centres deter doctors from serving in these areas.
Call to Action: To address these issues, doctors urge policymakers to improve infrastructure, define roles clearly, and enhance living conditions in rural areas.
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