‘Restrictions on Govt. doctors’ private practice to ensure better care in public facility’

Government doctors barred from inpatient private practice to enhance patient care in public hospitals.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Thursday informed the Legislative Assembly that doctors serving in government-run health facilities and hospitals have been barred from providing inpatient (IPD) treatment in private hospitals. They can continue to offer outpatient (OPD) services in private hospitals or clinics after duty hours.

He noted that similar restrictions are already in place in States such as Kerala, where government doctors are permitted private practice only for OPD services under strict conditions.

Explaining the rationale behind the decision, Mr. Rao said allowing government doctors to treat inpatients at private hospitals could disrupt services in government hospitals and adversely affect patient care. He noted that instances of negligence in government hospitals – some resulting in deaths – had been flagged by the Lokayukta and senior officials.

Replying to a question by Congress member K.M. Shivalingegowda during Question Hour, Mr. Rao said the department has taken steps to ensure uninterrupted medical services in government hospitals, including measures to provide round-the-clock healthcare at taluk hospitals through better deployment of doctors.

Responding to concerns raised by Mr. Shivalingegowda about service disruptions and public inconvenience, the Minister said the health department is working to address gaps in service delivery.

Mr. Rao also referred to recommendations of the Karnataka Administrative Reforms Commission, which has called for stricter regulation of private practice by government doctors to ensure priority to public service.