• Mou Mou
• 08 Jan, 2025

Now the West Bengal government has introduced strict guidelines for doctors in public hospitals requiring official permission to engage in their private practice. This rule aims to curb misuse of facilities and ensure accountability.

What Are the New Rules.?

Every government doctors including senior professors in public hospitals often they treat patients privately outside their official duties. Some even set up chambers in government quarters. Now the Health Department has issued a directive mandating that doctors must obtain prior approval from the “Director of Medical Education” to practice privately. Additionally, a “No Objection Certificate (NOC)” is also required. Doctors are also prohibited from conducting private consultations within government quarters.

Why Was This Step Taken.?

Previously there were no restrictions on private practice by the government doctors. However concerns about misuse of public resources and funds under the “Swasthya Sathi health card scheme” prompted stricter measures.

West Bengal’s Chief Minister and Health Minister Mamata Banerjee had raised concerns about fraudulent use of Swasthya Sathi funds stating “Double checks have revealed misuse of funds under the scheme.” She warned that action would be taken against those who involved in this.

This move aligns with the West Bengal government's ongoing efforts to regulate healthcare practices and ensure the transparency in the Swasthya Sathi scheme.

Additional Measures

The government has also directed doctors in public hospitals to sign affidavits to confirming they are not receiving “Non Practicing Allowance (NPA)” while engaging in private practice. Violations will result in strict penalties.

These steps are indicate that the government’s intent to tighten control over private practice among public healthcare professionals and prevent misuse of public health funds.

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Impact on Healthcare

This decision has sparked debates about whether these restrictions will discourage doctors from working in public hospitals or improve accountability. While somebodies view it as necessary to maintain integrity, others see it as an added burden on healthcare providers.