Shimla, (UNI) Amidst growing concerns over professional conduct in medical institutions, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today directed the Directorate of Medical Education to introduce induction training for doctors joining medical colleges as senior residents, as part of a broader effort to strengthen discipline, communication and patient care standards across the state.
The directive came during a meeting chaired by the Chief Minister with senior officers of the Health Department, officials of Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, and the Directorate of Medical Education.
The meeting reviewed various issues related to medical education in Himachal Pradesh, with a particular focus on the recent doctor–patient brawl reported at IGMC on December 22 that went viral tarnishing the premier health institution’s image.
The Chief Minister sought a detailed account of all facts and circumstances surrounding the incident from the concerned officials.
Terming the incident unacceptable, Sukhu directed that the inquiry into the matter be completed by December 24 and that appropriate action be taken without delay based on the findings.
He stressed that professional behaviour in medical institutions must always remain polite and calm, as it reflects not only on individuals but also on the reputation of the institution and the state.
Highlighting IGMC’s legacy, the Chief Minister said that doctors trained at the premier institution have brought recognition to Himachal Pradesh at the national and international levels, and any form of indiscipline tarnishes that image.
He made it clear that indiscipline would not be tolerated in any government medical institution.
As a corrective and preventive measure, Sukhu reviewed the senior residency process in detail and issued necessary guidelines to ensure that doctors are adequately oriented before assuming their responsibilities.
The Chief Minister said that over the past three years, the state government has undertaken several ambitious initiatives in the field of medical education and healthcare. World-class standards are being adopted to create a better working environment for doctors, nurses and paramedical staff in government hospitals and medical colleges.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to healthcare reforms, Sukhu said Himachal Pradesh was being developed as a model state in the health sector.
He informed that more than Rs 3,000 crore is being invested to improve the availability of modern health services and to strengthen and expand health infrastructure across the state.
He added that medical equipment that has been in use for more than two decades is being replaced with new and advanced technology to enhance the quality of patient care.
Health Minister Dr (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil was also present in the meeting and offered several valuable suggestions related to medical education, institutional discipline and improving doctor–patient relations, which were discussed in detail.
