PGIMER Administration Urges Outsourced Workers and Doctors to Resume Work Amid Ongoing Disruptions
The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh is currently facing significant disruptions due to a strike by outsourced Hospital Attendants, Sanitary Attendants, and Bearers, now in its fifth day. In solidarity with their counterparts in West Bengal, the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) has also called for a strike; however, 80% of resident doctors have reported for duty, demonstrating their commitment to patient care.
The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh is currently facing significant disruptions due to a strike by outsourced Hospital Attendants, Sanitary Attendants, and Bearers, now in its fifth day. In solidarity with their counterparts in West Bengal, the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) has also called for a strike; however, 80% of resident doctors have reported for duty, demonstrating their commitment to patient care.
Prof. Vivek Lal, Director of PGIMER, expressed deep concern over the strike, urging workers to consider the impact of their actions on patient care. He stated, “We ask the striking workers to resume work, driven not just by duty but by compassion for the patients in need.” He reassured that the administration remains open to discussions to address the workers' concerns while emphasizing the importance of patient welfare.
Despite the strike, Prof. Lal noted with appreciation the dedication of resident doctors who prioritized patient care. He also thanked staff and volunteers from organizations like Vishav Manav Ruhani Kendra, SUKH Foundation, and ROTARACT for their crucial role in maintaining services during this challenging time.
Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent, highlighted ongoing patient care efforts despite the strikes. He reported significant activity within various departments, including the management of 4,852 patients in the Outpatient Department (OPD) and 148 new cases in the Emergency OPD.
While contingency plans are in place to ensure critical services continue, Prof. Koushal called for the return of striking doctors and outsourced workers, stressing that patient well-being must come first.
"Contingency plan is in place to ensure that Emergency, Trauma, and ICU services remain operational. OPD services will be limited to follow-up patient registrations from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with new patient registrations and online appointments suspended. Elective admissions and surgeries have also been postponed, with patients being informed accordingly." -Prof. Vipin Koushal
