The Kerala Government Medical Officers’ Association (KGMOA) has issued a stern warning to the state government: if decisive action isn’t taken soon to bolster security in public hospitals, doctors across Kerala will initiate a phased, widespread protest. This ultimatum comes amidst growing concerns over persistent safety issues and inadequate security measures.
Among their core demands, the KGMOA insists on the immediate implementation of a triage system in all public hospital casualty units, alongside the deployment of two Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) per shift. They also advocate for the security of major hospitals to be entrusted to the State industrial security force and the establishment of dedicated police aid posts in all hospitals with emergency services.
The association has set a clear timeline for these demands. If ignored, a statewide non-cooperation movement will commence on November 1, with doctors refraining from all non-patient care duties. The KGMOA stated that this action would intensify if the government continues to disregard their urgent calls for reform.
Further strengthening their plea for a safer environment, doctors are calling for ex-servicemen to be appointed as hospital security personnel and for comprehensive CCTV surveillance systems to be installed in all medical facilities. They emphasize that adequate funds must be allocated promptly for these crucial upgrades. Additionally, the KGMOA is pressing for a clearly defined doctor-patient ratio for each service cadre to ensure manageable workloads and improved care.
In a related demand, the association has urged the government to cover all treatment expenses for Dr. Vipin, who was severely injured in a recent attack by a patient’s family member, highlighting the personal cost of current security failures.
The KGMOA expressed profound disappointment that existing measures have proven insufficient in safeguarding healthcare professionals. Despite numerous violent incidents in hospitals, the government has repeatedly overlooked doctors’ long-standing request to designate all hospitals as high-security zones.
Following the tragic murder of young Dr. Vandana Das while on duty, promises were made to protect medical staff. However, the KGMOA points out that beyond a strengthened Hospital Protection Act and revised protocols for police custody medical examinations, tangible improvements in workplace safety remain largely unaddressed.
Ultimately, the KGMOA asserts that it is the government’s fundamental responsibility to foster a safe and secure working environment within all public hospitals, preventing the collapse of the entire public health system.