MP Intern Doctors’ Strike Enters Day 3: OPD Services Hit, Hamidia Hospital Sees Drop in Surgeries

Intern doctors across Madhya Pradesh are protesting for a stipend hike, affecting outpatient services in government hospitals. Patients, especially those requiring specialised treatment, are facing difficulties.

The strike by intern doctors in Madhya Pradesh entered its third day on Wednesday, with protests over a demand for a stipend increase affecting healthcare services in several government hospitals across the state.The biggest demonstration is being held near Kamla Park in Bhopal, where a large number of intern doctors are sitting on the road as part of their protest. The agitation has also affected traffic movement in the area, with authorities making temporary arrangements to manage congestion.

OPD services affected at Hamidia Hospital

The impact of the strike was visible at Hamidia Hospital in Bhopal, one of the state’s largest government medical facilities.According to the report, the hospital’s outpatient department (OPD) functioned only for a limited period on Wednesday morning. From 10 am to 12 noon, senior doctors attended to patients, after which OPD services were stopped.

The number of surgeries also declined significantly. The hospital reportedly conducted only two surgeries on Wednesday, compared with more than 20 procedures on regular days.Patients suffering from kidney and liver-related ailments were among those facing difficulties due to reduced services.

Doctors continue protest over stipend demand

Intern doctors have maintained that their protest will continue until their demand for a stipend hike is addressed.Intern doctor Saurabh Soni said the agitation would continue until their demand was fulfilled. Another protesting doctor, Dr Shalini Khanna, said doctors were facing difficulties due to heat and outdoor conditions but were receiving support from fellow doctors and local residents.According to the protesting doctors, food and other basic support are being arranged by senior doctors, colleagues and people from Bhopal.

Administration holds talks

Police and administrative officials are in talks with the protesting doctors to minimise inconvenience to patients and maintain law and order.The government’s response and the outcome of discussions will determine the next course of action. Meanwhile, patients visiting government hospitals continue to face uncertainty over regular medical services.