Government hospitals across Telangana, including Gandhi Hospital and Osmania General Hospital, encountered minor disruptions on Thursday due to an ongoing strike by over 850 Aarogya Mitras for the second consecutive day. These healthcare workers, who assist patients under the Rajiv Aarogyasri Health Care Trust, initiated the strike on Wednesday over unmet demands.
“Hospitals like Gandhi and Osmania manage 1,500 to 2,000 outpatient visits daily, many from low-income patients relying on Aarogyasri services. The absence of staff at Aarogyasri counters has created significant challenges,” stated Bhupal, president of the Telangana United Medical and Health Employees Union. He mentioned that union representatives are scheduled to meet Health Minister C. Damodar Rajanarasimha on Friday, expressing hope for a swift resolution.
Despite the strike, superintendents at both hospitals have reported that patient services remain unaffected. “We anticipated the strike and made alternative arrangements to ensure Aarogyasri counters were staffed, with personnel available to handle paperwork and assist patients,” said Dr. Rakesh Sahay, Superintendent of Osmania General Hospital.
Published – September 20, 2024, 04:03 am IST
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/850-aarogya-mitras-continue-strike-for-second-day/article68660213.ece
Category : Telangana
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