Shimla, April 23
A major controversy has erupted in Himachal Pradesh’s healthcare sector after the State Association of Medical and Dental College Teachers (SAMDCOT) strongly opposed the government’s decision to bifurcate the Obstetrics and Gynaecology (OBG) department by shifting the gynaecology unit from Kamla Nehru Hospital (KNH) to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC).
In a sharply worded press release, the association termed the move “illogical, unprecedented, and against established medical and academic principles,” warning that it could severely impact patient care and medical education.
SAMDCOT said OBG functions as a unified, integrated department worldwide, particularly in teaching institutions where coordination is critical. “Separating gynaecology from obstetrics will compromise treatment outcomes and disrupt academic training,” the statement noted.
Patient Care at Risk
The association flagged serious concerns over the impact on healthcare delivery, stating that fragmentation of services would lead to delays, inefficiencies, and compromised standards of care. It emphasized that continuity and multidisciplinary coordination are essential in OBG services.
Medical Education to Suffer
Doctors also warned that the bifurcation would disrupt undergraduate and postgraduate teaching. The proposal to create two teaching units of 60 students each was described as “impractical” and not in line with National Medical Commission (NMC) norms.
Robotic Surgery Argument Questioned
SAMDCOT dismissed the government’s justification of introducing robotic surgery at IGMC, pointing out that such procedures are limited in scope.
“Robotic surgery for gynaecology is available only three days a week, and only a small proportion of patients require it. The majority of care does not depend on robotic intervention,” the association said.
Future Projects in Jeopardy
The doctors’ body warned that key healthcare projects at KNH — including an IVF centre, fetal medicine unit, and oncology centre — could face indefinite delays due to the restructuring.
It also highlighted the crucial role of the Neonatal ICU at KNH, which has been operational for over two decades and handles referrals from premier institutes like AIIMS Bilaspur. Any disruption, it said, would adversely affect neonatal care in the region.
Govt Ignoring Stakeholder Concerns
SAMDCOT alleged that despite multiple representations by faculty, the government has moved ahead without adequately addressing concerns raised by healthcare professionals.
Call for Immediate Rollback
Urging Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to intervene, the association demanded immediate revocation of the decision. It also suggested setting up a dedicated robotic surgery centre at KNH without disturbing the existing departmental structure.
“The decision goes against patient welfare, academic integrity, and long-term healthcare development,” SAMDCOT said, adding that the medical fraternity stands united in seeking reconsideration.
