Patna: Doctors from government hospitals across Bihar have launched a three-day strike starting Thursday, leading to the complete shutdown of Outpatient Department (OPD) services statewide. The strike, called by the Bihar Health Services Association (BHSA), is in protest against government stand on salary concerns, safety, staff shortages, administrative harassment, and the implementation of biometric attendance.
The strike is expected to cause severe hardships, particularly for patients from rural areas who rely on government healthcare facilities. However, emergency and trauma services will continue to function as usual, ensuring critical medical care remains available.
BHSA spokesperson Dr. Vinay Kumar stated that the Bihar government, under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has failed to address their long-standing demands, including improved doctor safety, timely salaries, postings in home districts, and better infrastructure in healthcare facilities.
A recent incident in Sheohar, where doctors were allegedly mistreated during a meeting with a District Magistrate, has further fueled their grievances. "The government’s inaction has left us with no choice but to go on strike for three days, starting Thursday," Dr. Kumar said.
As a result, OPD services have been suspended in all medical colleges, Sadar hospitals, referral hospitals, Community Health Centers (CHCs), and Primary Health Centers (PHCs) across all 38 districts of Bihar. Patients who had scheduled procedures or consultations will now need to reschedule or seek alternative treatment options. The worst affected will be economically disadvantaged patients, particularly in rural areas, where private healthcare remains unaffordable for many.
The BHSA has warned that if the government fails to provide a concrete resolution by March 29, the strike may escalate further. "We will continue our protest until our demands are met," Dr. Kumar asserted.
The ongoing strike has raised serious concerns about access to essential medical services, particularly for the underprivileged, as government hospitals remain the primary source of healthcare in rural Bihar.
With IANS inputs