Dr Balbir Singh Shah is a member of the Punjab Medical Council (PMC) and is currently the chairman of the CME (Continuing Medical Education) Credit Accreditation Committee. Dr Shah, who is a professor of pathology at Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, talks to Sameer Kumar Sharma, about the pros and cons of being a doctor in the current scenario.

Ques: Why it is believed that the number of PCMS doctors violating the rule as regards private practice has increased over the years?

It is true that today number of government doctors who are believed to be working privately is more as compared to the trend a decade ago. And there are various reasons for that. Lure of money is one of the main factors, and there is another side to the problem.

But the government doctors should not violate the terms and conditions of their profession as they are already paid non-practising allowance by the government. And if they are not happy with the amount being paid to them, they should report it through a proper channel.

Ques: What is the other possible side that you just mentioned as a reason?

If there are no proper facilities or infrastructure, a doctor cannot do much. And for want of proper infrastructure and facilities, there is less of job satisfaction. Our health system is presently not living up to the expected level and therefore some doctors may not have the job satisfaction.

Ques: Are you hinting at the shortage of doctors in government colleges because of more prospects in the private sector?

... contd.