IMA

2024 - 8 - 16

When Doctors Disappear: IMA Puts on Their Striking Shoes!

doctor safety - healthcare violence - Indian Medical Association - Kolkata doctor rape case - medical services disruption - national strike - indian medical association - justice for kolkata doctor

Doctors across India are uniting in a 24-hour strike, demanding better safety measures following a shocking incident in Kolkata. Are you ready for the shutdown?

In recent news that has sent shockwaves across the nation, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has demanded immediate action following the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata. As a stand against this horrific crime, the IMA laid out five key demands, which include a central law for the safety of doctors, enhanced security measures in hospitals akin to airport standards, and significant amendments in existing laws. The call for these demands comes as a response to the alarming rise in violence against healthcare professionals, a topic that has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to disturbing incidents.

On August 17th, the IMA has declared a nationwide strike across all medical services, with only emergency services remaining operational. This strike is a powerful statement, as doctors from all over the country, including private hospitals in Karnataka, are poised to halt non-essential medical services for 24 hours. This significant action reflects the collective outrage within the medical community, aimed at not only seeking justice for the Kolkata incident but also advocating for improved safety measures in the healthcare environment.

The repercussions of this strike are expected to disrupt medical services nationwide, with hospitals bracing for the impact on outpatient services and elective surgeries. The general public will need to be aware of what medical services are available, as many hospitals will only cater to emergencies. Amidst the tension, it is essential to acknowledge the bravery of healthcare workers who put their lives on the line daily, facing not only health crises but now violence in their workplaces.

As the country anticipates this solidarity strike, it might come as a surprise that India ranks among the top countries for healthcare profession-related violence globally. With doctors often being at the receiving end of ire due to factors beyond their control, the need to address this issue is urgent. Moreover, interestingly, statistics reveal that nearly 75% of doctors in India have encountered some form of violence during their career, highlighting a significant gap in the safety protocols that need to be urgently addressed. It's time for reforms that prioritize the safety and welfare of those entrusted with our health!

Post cover — Image courtesy of "Times of India"

IMA

When Doctors Disappear: IMA Puts on Their Striking Shoes!

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