National Doctors’ Day: A celebration under crisis

Arindam Ganguly, OP

Bhubaneswar: As Odisha gears up to observe National Doctors’ Day (July 1), the occasion is tinged with concern. While heartfelt tributes honour the dedication of medical professionals, the state’s healthcare infrastructure tells a troubling story — more than 74 per cent of specialist posts in Community Health Centres (CHCs) lie vacant. Out of 1,500 sanctioned posts, only 386 are filled, exposing a severe shortfall that continues to hamper rural healthcare delivery.

The issue was recently acknowledged in the state Assembly, where Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling admitted to the acute shortage of specialists. For millions living in Odisha’s remote districts, this crisis means delayed diagnoses, restricted treatment options, and long, often unaffordable, journeys to urban centres for even basic specialist care.

Orissa POST spoke to experts to understand the root causes behind the persistent vacancies — and why filling these critical roles remains a daunting challenge.

Health expert Amrit Pattojoshi attributed the shortage to poor working conditions. “The infrastructure is outdated or non-functional. Junior doctors are often left alone to handle complicated cases without proper support. In such an environment, motivation fades quickly,” he explained.

Pattojoshi advocates a rotation-based model, suggesting that doctors serve in rural areas for three years before becoming eligible for a posting of their choice. He also emphasised the need for improved infrastructure and quality schooling options for doctors’ families.

Subasish Behera, another health expert, pointed to the stark urban-rural divide in medical access. “Over 70 per cent of Odisha’s population resides in rural areas, yet a single doctor may be responsible for more than 10,000 people. In contrast, urban areas enjoy a much better ratio of about 1:1,500,” he noted.

Prasant Nayak, head of the Urology department at AIIMS-Bhubaneswar, said that National Doctors’ Day is like taking another oath as a doctor — a renewed commitment to serve patients with dedication and compassion.

Nayak added that the state has made significant strides over the past five years, especially in areas such as cancer treatment, radiotherapy, and other specialised care.

AIIMS-Bhubaneswar executive director Ashutosh Biswas remarked, “Doctors are the backbone of the healthcare system—serving with unwavering dedication, compassion, and expertise. Their commitment goes far beyond healing bodies; they touch hearts and transform lives every single day.”

Bhoomika Dash, actress and practising dentist, emphasised that the medical profession works for the well-being of society. As a dental specialist, she strives to raise awareness about oral health care, highlighting that many people often do not take dental hygiene seriously, which can lead to serious health concerns, including oral cavity cancer.

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