Chhattisgarh Opens Doors to Out-of-State Medics, Local Doctors Cry Foul
The Chhattisgarh government's decision to allow medical professionals from other states to practice without independent registration with the state medical council has stirred controversy among local doctors, who argue it undermines local employment and reduces scrutiny of credentials.
On June 11, the Chhattisgarh Department of Public Health & Family Welfare issued a notification stating that doctors, nurses, technicians, and other allied healthcare professionals registered with any state medical council, the National Medical Register, or any other national register recognized by the Government of India can now practice in Chhattisgarh without approval from the Chhattisgarh Medical Council.
The new rule reverses the previous requirement that medical professionals obtain a No Objection Certificate from their current state of practice and register with the Chhattisgarh Medical Council before working in the state.
Local doctors have expressed resentment, stating that the move threatens job opportunities for the state's own medical workforce. They also worry that the relaxed requirement will lead to inadequate verification of practitioners' qualifications and credentials, potentially compromising patient safety.
The state government has not yet responded to the criticism. The notification is seen as an attempt to address staff shortages in public health facilities, but the lack of local registration has raised questions about accountability and oversight.
