Health Minister Damodar Rajanarsimha asks officials to furnish report on doctors’ demands

Hyderabad: Health Minister Damodar Rajanarsimha has asked officials to submit a report on the demands of the doctors.

During a meeting with representatives of the Telangana Government Doctors Association (TGDA) at the Indian Institute of Family Welfare office in Hyderabad, the minister discussed strengthening medical services in government hospitals and improving working conditions for doctors. He assured the doctors that their concerns would be addressed.

Doctors Demand Rectification of GO MS No. 142

The representatives urged the minister to correct errors in Government Order (GO) MS No. 142, which they believe has created administrative hurdles. They also requested that each district be assigned a District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) post.

Dr. Narahari, President of the Telangana Government Doctors Association, stated, “The mistakes in GO MS No. 142 must be rectified immediately, and every district should have a DMHO to ensure better healthcare administration.”

Additionally, the association sought approval for 66 Civil Surgeon General Line posts—33 for DMHO and 33 for Additional DMHO—to strengthen district-level medical leadership.

Push for Promotions in Public Health

The doctors requested promotions for public health officials according to cadre strength and emphasized the need for a structured process based on vertical seniority in the general line. Dr. Lalu Prasad Rathod, Secretary General of the association, said, “Public health doctors deserve promotions based on cadre strength, and we request the government to streamline this process.” The Association also demanded that dental doctors be integrated into the public health department.

Proposal to Restructure Telangana Medical Policy Council

The doctors suggested converting the Telangana Medical Policy Council into secondary-grade services to improve efficiency. Dr. Ravoof, Treasurer of the association, explained, “Reforming the Medical Policy Council will help in better governance and ensure streamlined decision-making.”

Government Promises Action

Minister Damodar Rajanarsimha responded positively to the doctors’ demands and directed State Public Health Secretary Dr. Christina to submit a detailed report on possible solutions. “The government recognizes the concerns of our doctors, and I have instructed the health department to analyze these issues and propose necessary changes,” the minister stated.