Despite the Congress government’s claim of crediting salaries to government employees on 1st of every month, medical officers serving in primary health centers (PHCs) and mid-level health providers (MLHPs) in Palle Dawakhanas have not received their salaries for three consecutive months.
The situation extends beyond doctors appointed under the National Health Mission (NHM), the second Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) and Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) workers who have also faced irregularities in their monthly payments.
While in neighboring Andhra Pradesh, salaries are consistently disbursed, Telangana’s government has faced criticism, citing delays in receiving central funds as the cause for the payment delays. Frustrated by the lack of response from the authorities, medical officers and MLHPs are contemplating agitation as a means of addressing their grievances. Such a move could potentially disrupt medical services for the residents of mandals and villages.
Under the NHM, medical officers, MLHPs, second ANMs, and ASHA workers, all appointed less than two years ago, are entitled to 60% of their salaries from the central government and 40% from the state government. While they received their salaries regularly during the previous administration led by KCR, the new government has failed to maintain this practice.
If the situation persists until March 20, employees will have four months’ worth of pending salaries. Despite previous appeals to Minister of Health, Damodara Rajanarsimha, for intervention, justice has yet to be served to the medical staff. The government’s delay in addressing this issue has prompted ASHA workers to demand one month’s salary arrears, while second ANMs seek payment for two months’ arrears.
The absence of salaries for medical officers in PHCs and MLHPs poses a significant threat to rural healthcare services. These professionals are crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of primary health centers and rural hospitals, where they oversee patient care, conduct necessary medical tests, and coordinate with fellow staff to address patient needs.
Despite their dedication, the lack of clear assurances from the government has pushed them to consider agitation as a last resort.