Orissa HC Recommends Imposing Restrictions On Voluntary Retirement Of Govt Doctors, Issues Directions For Better Working Conditions

The Orissa High Court has suggested the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Odisha to bring in necessary amendments to the Odisha Civil Services Rules, 1992 so as to put a bar on large-scale exit of government doctors through the voluntary retirement scheme. Expressing deep concern over huge exodus of government physicians, the Single Bench of Dr. Justice Sanjeeb Kumar Panigrahi observed – “A troubling pattern has emerged as doctors across the country continue to seek voluntary retirement in alarming numbers. A review committee for voluntary retirements rejected her request on 17.09.2024, stating that her retirement could not be permitted due to an acute shortage of doctors in government medical institutions across the state. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, improving working conditions, and ensuring that those entrusted with healing others are not themselves burdened by inefficiency and neglect, these are not secondary considerations.” Therefore, acknowledging the vital role of physicians in safeguarding public health, the Court issued the following recommendations for the government's consideration in drafting a framework for the retention of doctors within the healthcare system – The government shall ensure that compensation structures for physicians are reformed in a manner that is equitable, transparent, and commensurate with their professional contribution.