Gaya Reacts to Proposed Ban on Government Doctors' Private Practice
The proposed ban on private practice by government doctors in Gaya has sparked a complex mix of hope and scepticism among stakeholders. While nearly everyone agrees the policy is desirable in principle, many doubt its practical implementation will succeed. Similar attempts have failed multiple times in the past, raising serious questions about this new initiative.
Medical Experts Voice Concerns Over Feasibility
Dr A N Rai, former president of the Bihar unit of the Indian Medical Association, offered a cautious perspective. He stated the proposal looks good on paper but faces immense practical hurdles. Dr Rai emphasized the need for substantial groundwork before any implementation.
"The government should adopt a phased approach," Dr Rai suggested. "They could begin with a trial involving fresh entrants to government-run medical colleges and hospitals."
He warned that rushing the policy could prove counter-productive. Doctors need time to adjust mentally and psychologically to this changed reality. Dr Rai pointed out that even at prestigious institutes like the Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences in Patna, where private practice is officially banned, some doctors still engage in it secretly.
"The government must prepare a contingency plan," he added, highlighting potential chaos and confusion from abrupt decisions.
Business Leader Calls for Realistic Assessment
Kaushalendra Pratap, patron of the Central Bihar Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the announcement but urged careful implementation. He stressed that the policy should not be executed in a hit-and-run manner.
"We need a realistic assessment of infrastructure in government hospitals," Pratap said. "There's already a shortage of doctors. Filling vacant positions must be the government's first priority."
Recalling the idiom about good intentions paving the road to hell, he emphasized calmly evaluating all aspects while keeping patients' interests foremost.
Historical Parallels and Political Will
Md Moosa, former member of Anugrah Narain Magadh Medical College and Hospital, called the idea laudable but extremely difficult to implement. He stated that very strong political and administrative will would be required for success.
Moosa recalled former chief minister Chandrashekhar Singh's similar attempt in the 1980s, which ultimately failed. "Nitish Kumar should learn from this history," Moosa advised, advocating for a more nuanced and methodical approach.
He expressed concern that if the intent was merely to play to the gallery, little would be achieved in reality.
Trade Union Perspective
Trade union leader Parasnath Singh also welcomed the move, stating that effective implementation would provide great service to the poor and workers. However, he added a significant caveat.
"But it is a big 'if'," Singh noted, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding successful execution.
The discussion continues as stakeholders weigh the policy's potential benefits against the considerable implementation challenges it faces.
