Srinagar, July 31(KNS): In response to concerns over doctors pursuing higher studies or registrarship without proper authorization, the Health and Medical Education Department has conducted a thorough examination of the cases.

The department found that Heads of Departments (HoDs) have been allowing doctors to rejoin after an extended absence, which is beyond their jurisdiction.

To rectify this issue, the Secretary to the government, Health and Medical Education Department, Bhupinder Kumar, has issued strict instructions to all HoDs. The key measures they are required to follow: "From now on, applications for rejoining from doctors who have been absent or absconding without authorization will not be accepted by HoDs without prior approval from the Administrative Department," the instructions said.

It said that the concerned HoDs are directed to submit the cases of doctors who have been absent or absconding without authorization to the Administrative Department within one week for examination. After this period, such cases will not be entertained by the Administrative Department, and the concerned HoDs will be held responsible.

"HoDs are required to instruct the field officers and DDOs under their control to immediately report any unauthorized absence or absconding of employees or doctors to the concerned HoDs and the Administrative Department. Failure to report timely information may result in disciplinary action against the Controlling Officer/DDO," it added.

The Health and Medical Education Department emphasizes the importance of adhering to these instructions diligently. By implementing these measures, the department aims to ensure a more accountable and efficient system for managing doctor absences.(KNS).