Following the viral circulation of a letter wherein five junior doctors (first-year students) of Gandhi Medical College (GMC), Bhopal collectively issued a warning of mass suicide on May 31st, the Association has taken notice. The letter highlighted instances of mistreatment by seniors, pressure for work, working for 12 to 36 hours continuously, and a toxic environment. It also mentioned the suicides of two GMC doctors, Dr. Akanksha Maheshwari and Dr. Bala Saraswati.
The Pradesh Adhyaksha of FAIMA
Dr. Harish Pathak, expressed concern over the distressing content of the letter, emphasizing that the circumstances faced by junior doctors are troubling. He noted that these issues are not limited to GMC alone but are prevalent in several medical colleges across the state and country. However, there have been significant improvements in recent years.
FAIMA has formed an inquiry committee to investigate the matter
Starting with verifying the authenticity of the letter and identifying its authors. Dr. Pathak urged the doctors mentioned in the letter to come forward and share their grievances so that appropriate assistance can be provided. Helpline numbers have been issued for this purpose.
Dr. Pathak stressed that the pressure faced by junior doctors also affects patient care. FAIMA is concerned about the workload of junior doctors and is in contact with GMC management to find a timely resolution to this issue.
It is alarming that five junior doctors from GMC issued a collective warning of suicide on May 31st, citing mistreatment by seniors, work pressure, prolonged working hours, and a toxic environment. The mention of the suicides of two doctors adds gravity to the situation.