SAMDCOT Opposes Govt’s Move to Split OBG Dept in Shimla, Raises Patient Care Concerns
A major controversy has emerged in Himachal Pradesh’s medical education and healthcare system after the State Association of Medical and Dental College Teachers (SAMDCOT) strongly opposed the government’s decision to bifurcate the Obstetrics and Gynaecology (OBG) department.
The association, representing faculty members of State Association of Medical and Dental College Teachers at Indira Gandhi Medical College and Kamla Nehru Hospital, has termed the move “illogical, unprecedented, and against established medical and academic principles.”
What is the Issue?
The government has decided to shift the Gynaecology unit from Kamla Nehru Hospital (KNH) to IGMC, effectively splitting the OBG department into two separate units. SAMDCOT argues that globally, OBG functions as a unified department—especially in teaching institutions—where integrated care and training are critical.
Impact on Patient Care
According to the association, dividing the department could seriously affect patient outcomes. They highlight that:
- A unified OBG department ensures seamless coordination and continuity of care.
- Fragmentation may lead to inefficiencies, delays, and compromised treatment standards.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration, essential in maternal healthcare, may weaken.
Concerns Over Medical Education
SAMDCOT has also flagged serious academic implications:
- Undergraduate and postgraduate training programs could be disrupted.
- Structured teaching modules may lose effectiveness due to departmental division.
- The proposal to create two teaching sections of 60 students each does not align with National Medical Commission (NMC) norms and is considered impractical by faculty members.
Robotic Surgery Argument Questioned
The government has cited the introduction of robotic surgery at IGMC as a justification for the shift. However, SAMDCOT dismissed this reasoning, stating:
- Robotic surgery for gynaecology is available only a few days a week.
- Only a small fraction of patients require such procedures.
- Most patient care in OBG does not depend on robotic interventions.
Future Healthcare Development at Stake
The association further emphasized that KNH already has sufficient infrastructure and expansion plans in place. They warned that disrupting the existing system could hinder long-term healthcare development in the region.
Strong Appeal to the Government
SAMDCOT has urged the government to reconsider the decision, stressing that patient welfare and quality medical education must remain the top priorities.
