Police Hospitals in Madhya Pradesh Face Acute Doctor Shortage

Strategic Insights -

Police personnel and their families in Madhya Pradesh face a daunting challenge in accessing quality medical care due to an acute shortage of doctors at the police-run hospitals. Out of 70 hospitals and dispensaries, only 17 have doctors assigned, with most of the medical facilities struggling to cope with the dearth of medical professionals. This situation has been persisting for years, forcing police personnel to seek treatment at private or other government hospitals, often at their own expense. The police department had established these hospitals to cater to the healthcare needs of over 1.6 lakh personnel and their 5 lakh family members.

Key Takeaways:

  • 70 police-run hospitals and dispensaries in Madhya Pradesh face a severe doctor shortage, with only 17 having doctors assigned.
  • The health department has failed to send doctors and paramedical staff on deputation to these facilities, despite repeated requests from the police department.
  • Many of the doctors currently posted are nearing retirement, and the number of available doctors is expected to fall further by next year.
  • Even minor injuries requiring basic dressing are being referred to other hospitals due to the lack of medical personnel.
  • Letters have been written by the police department to the health department for the past five years seeking deputation of doctors and paramedical staff, but no concrete action has been taken.

Statistics:

  • 70 hospitals and dispensaries run by the police department in Madhya Pradesh.
  • 17 doctors assigned to these facilities, out of which 10 are nearing retirement.
  • 5 lakh family members of police personnel dependent on the police-run hospitals for medical care.
  • 1.6 lakh police personnel served by the police-run hospitals.
  • 5 years of correspondence between the police department and the health department regarding deputation of doctors and paramedical staff.

Sources:

  • "Police hospitals run sans doctors; cops, their families forced to go elsewhere for medical aid" – Indian National Press (Bombay) Pvt. Ltd., 2025 (distributed by Contify.com)
  • Police Department of Madhya Pradesh, various letters sent to the Health Department regarding deputation of doctors and paramedical staff (no dates mentioned)