Govt issues strict directive, prohibiting doctors from engaging in private practice during official working hours
Srinagar, Mar 25 (KINS): The Jammu and Kashmir Health & Medical Education Department has issued a strict directive prohibiting government doctors from engaging in private practice during official working hours.
The order, issued under Circular No. 03-JK (HME) of 2025, warns that any violation will be treated as serious misconduct and will attract disciplinary action.
According to the circular as per news agency KINS, instances of doctors engaging in private consultations during duty hours have been observed, affecting patient care and disrupting hospital operations.
To curb this malpractice, the department has directed Principles of Medical Colleges, Medical Superintendents of Associated Hospitals, Chief Medical Officers, and Medical Superintendents of District Hospitals to enforce strict compliance.
Key directives include ensuring all doctors remain available at their designated hospitals, conducting surprise inspections, and investigating complaints of private practice during duty hours.
The move is aimed at strengthening public healthcare services and upholding professional ethics.
The circular, signed by Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, IAS, Secretary to the Government, has been sent to heads of medical institutions across J&K, mandating immediate enforcement.(KINS)
