Pvt practice ‘in duty hours’: Contractual doctor sacked

Services of a contractual medical officer working at a primary health centre were terminated after evidence proved he was engaged in private practice during duty hours.

Dr Ankit Gupta was deployed at the primary health centre in Fatehganj. But health department officials found that Dr Gupta visited a private clinic just opposite the centre during his duty hours.

“It came to our notice that you leave patients at the primary health centre and visit your clinic during the duty hours,” said the notice issued by the office of the chief medical officer of Lucknow, Dr GS Bajpayee, on Monday.

The letter further said there was photographic evidence that showed Dr Gupta treating patients at his clinic during his duty hours.

The proof was submitted by the superintendent of the primary health centre, sources said adding that the services of Dr Gupta stand terminated from August 23.

Appointment of contractual staff – doctors and para medical – was done by the health department on annual basis to bridge the gap in healthcare services that was facing acute staff shortage. Such doctors are given time bound duty/responsibilities at health centres and hospitals where there are fewer doctors.

THEFT COMPLAINT

Attendant of a patient admitted to KGMU trauma centre has filed police complaint stating money brought for operation was stolen on Monday.

The patient a native of Basti diatrict, is admitted to neuro surgery department and has been advised operation. Rs 1.25 lakh were brought for the operation.