Himachal to address Doctor shortage with large-scale recruitment in health sector – Approval granted for 380 new positions
Himachal Pradesh’s long-standing issue of doctor shortages in hospitals is set to be resolved soon. The state health department has initiated a major recruitment drive and is receiving approval from the government. These recruitments, to be conducted by the Public Service Commission, mark a significant step forward after years of limited hiring. Initially, 200 posts for Medical Officers will be filled.
In a recent cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, approval was granted for 380 new positions in the health department. These include 214 Medical Officers, 3 Matrons, 9 Ward Sisters, 1 Radiographer, 83 Staff Nurses, 3 MLT Grade II staff, 3 Specialists, 7 Senior Residents, 1 Dental Mechanic, and 30 Emergency Medical Officers across various categories. The recruitment process is underway, with priority given to Medical Officers.
Health Director Prakash Daroch confirmed, “The health department is actively following state government directives. Recruitment for Medical Officers through the Public Service Commission has already started. These efforts will bring significant changes to the health department, providing employment and filling long-vacant positions in hospitals.”
Competitive Salaries for New Medical Officers
Selected Medical Officers will receive salaries under Pay Band Level-18, ranging from ₹56,100 to ₹1,77,500. This initiative is expected to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure significantly.
Over the last two years, the state government has regularized 542 Medical Officers, 522 Staff Nurses, 15 Clerical Staff, 8 Statistical Assistants, 15 Junior Office Assistants (IT), 141 Pharmacists, 2 Radiographers, 2 Ophthalmic Officers, 28 Laboratory Assistants, 101 MLT Grade II staff, 154 Female Health Workers, and 22 Class IV employees, reinforcing the state’s commitment to improving healthcare services.
