Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government’s decision to extend the working hours of Community Health Centres from 9 am to 6 pm has triggered protests among doctors.  

In a statement, the Kerala Government Medical Officers’ Association (KGMOA) said the step puts an excessive load on doctors and health workers who are already stretched.

The association called the order unrealistic and unfair, saying it was issued without taking on-ground realities into account.

KGMOA noted that Community Health Centres operate in circumstances very different from Family Health Centres and handle broader responsibilities.

It said even the government’s own guidelines on minimum staffing are not being followed, and no new posts have been created in CHCs in recent years. Many centres, it added, run with only three doctors.

Extending OPD services until evening would mean that, apart from the officer in charge, only two doctors would have to manage patients up to 6 pm, and there could be times when only one doctor is available during the busy morning hours.

“In already crowded centres, having only one doctor in the OPD will create dissatisfaction, conflicts and ultimately affect treatment quality,” the statement said.

KGMOA urged the government to immediately withdraw the revised order and ensure adequate manpower before implementing such changes.

It also warned that doctors — who are often unable to take even their entitled leave due to workload — will strongly resist any move that further increases pressure.

The statement was issued by KGMOA president Dr Sunil PK and general secretary Dr Jobin G Joseph.