Despite rising unemployment rates across the state, Gujarat’s government hospitals are grappling with a critical shortage of pharmacists.
Across medical colleges, sub-districts, general hospitals, and community health centers, a shocking 496 junior pharmacist positions remain unfilled.
While a recent move by the Gujarat Selection Board to fill 254 pharmacist positions offered a glimmer of hope, still overall shortage continues to pose a significant challenge.
The lack of pharmacists is particularly impacting the functioning of medicine store departments.
Data reveals a concerning vacancy rate:
Health Department: 171 vacancies out of 441 approved positions (39%)
Medical Service Department: 279 vacancies out of 458 approved positions (61%)
Medical Education and Research Department: 188 vacancies out of 205 approved positions (92%)
Combined, these departments face a vacancy rate of 58% for junior pharmacist positions. The situation is even more dire for senior and chief pharmacist roles, with vacancies exceeding 60% and 85% respectively.
According to reports submitted to the government, this shortage of junior pharmacists is causing significant hardship for patients seeking essential medications.