Chandigarh: Doctors’ body calls for urgent measures to ease workload

A 25-year-old junior resident doctor pursuing a Doctor of Medicine (MD) was found dead at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in Sector 32, Chandigarh, on Tuesday. The postmortem revealed the body in a bathroom with four syringes nearby, prompting police to suspect suicide, though the exact cause of death remains under investigation. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) Chandigarh condemned the incident, calling it a stark reminder of the extreme physical, mental, and emotional strain on healthcare professionals. The association highlighted systemic issues, including excessive patient loads, prolonged duty hours, sleep deprivation, and inadequate staffing, which contribute to the deteriorating well-being of doctors, particularly in tertiary care institutions. IMA Chandigarh president Dr Anil Kumar emphasized that while doctors prioritize patient care, their own health is often neglected. He urged authorities to conduct a thorough review of working conditions and implement measures such as reduced duty hours, better staffing, and improved support systems to foster a healthier work-life balance. The association also stressed the need for structured mental health interventions, including counseling services, stress management programs, and wellness initiatives for healthcare workers. In solidarity, the Resident Doctors Association at GMCH-32 organized a candlelight vigil in Block E on Wednesday evening to mourn the loss of a young colleague. Authorities have yet to confirm the cause of death, with investigations ongoing under GMCH-32 director-principal Dr Ravneet Kaur. The incident has reignited discussions on the urgent need for systemic reforms in public healthcare to prevent further tragedies.