Stipend to interns: NMC issues show cause notice to 34 medical colleges in Telangana, Andhra

AP/ Telangana: National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued show cause notices to 115 government medical colleges and 83 private medical colleges across India for not submitting details of stipends paid to interns, residents, and senior residents.

The NMC has questioned why action shall not be initiated on the defaulting medical colleges for their non-compliance during the financial year 2023-24.

Several doctors have raised concerns over the non-payment and irregularities in stipend distribution despite the directions of the Supreme Court on paying stipends to interns.

The NMC had directed the private and government medical colleges to furnish the details of stipends paid before April 23, 2024, for the financial year 2023-24. The NMC has directed the institutions to show cause as to why penal action should not be taken for the failure to submit the details.

Colleges from AP and Telangana violate norms:

Several colleges from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have found their way into the list of institutions that have failed to fulfill the directions of the NMC in submitting the details of the stipends paid to interns, residents, and senior residents.

12 government medical colleges from Telangana and 3 government medical colleges from Andhra Pradesh, while 13 private medical institutions from Telangana and 6 such institutions from Andhra Pradesh have not submitted the details of stipends.

Adjournment motion in Lok Sabha

Following the concerns raised by the medical fraternity, Vijay Vasanth, Congress MP from Tamil Nadu moved an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha to highlight the sufferings of the interns, residents, and senior residents across the country.

The motion submitted raised serious concerns about the interns and residents being coerced into paying upfront fees under the false assurance that the stipends cover such costs.

The immediate intervention of the government and the concerned medical authorities was sought in the motion.

Importance of paying stipends

The interns, residents, and senior residents are paid stipends during their service which cover a part of their expenses. The stipends are crucial since they play a vital role in patient care.

Dr Kiran Madhala, secretary general of Telangana Teaching Government Doctors Associate (TTGDA) said, “Many interns face financial challenges, especially in demanding professions like healthcare. A stipend helps cover basic living expenses, reducing stress and enabling them to focus on the training”.

Compensation for contribution and equality

The interns and residents often contribute to the overall functioning of the healthcare system and the general practice of paying stipends is practiced in several sectors and industries.

“While the health sector should follow the practice of paying stipends, this boosts morale and motivates the interns and residents to engage actively in their roles. This can enhance their learning and improve patient care”, Dr Kiran said.

Given the diverse financial and social backgrounds of the interns and residents, financial compensation can ensure equity and respect for their time and work.