The Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER), Gujarat, has directed all government medical colleges to improve the working conditions of first-year resident doctors.The order was issued after parents of postgraduate medical students submitted a representation alleging that first-year residents were working long hours with inadequate sleep, resulting in increased mental stress.
In a communication to heads of departments, the DMER instructed colleges to strictly follow the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines on resident doctors’ duty schedules.
According to the guidelines, postgraduate resident doctors must receive one weekly off, and duty rosters should ensure they get six to eight hours of rest, sleep and personal time every 24 hours.
The DMER also asked colleges to ensure junior doctors are not subjected to mental or emotional harassment. Senior residents have been instructed to treat first-year residents with respect, maintain a supportive work environment, and avoid public scolding or humiliation.
The department further said that if any shortcomings are found in a resident doctor’s clinical work, heads of units or departments should provide private counselling and guidance for improvement instead of criticising them publicly.