Shocker! Half of Odisha doctors not qualified; High Court orders inquiry

Concerned over shocking findings of the World Bank report that says only 51 per cent of doctors in Odisha have required educational qualifications, the Orissa High Court on Thursday ordered the State government to carry out an inquiry of Odisha-based doctors to ascertain their qualifications.

The court’s order came while hearing a case pertaining to fake doctors. It was when the court was informed that 51 per cent of Odisha doctors have requisite professional qualifications while the remaining doctors do not.

Displeased by World Bank findings, the court instructed the Odisha government to inform it on what basis it will carry out inquiry into doctors’ educational qualifications. 

“The court should also be informed about the deadline of finishing the task. Besides, the state government should inform the court about necessary action to be taken against doctors lacking required qualifications”, read the court statement. 

The next hearing of the case will be held on January 27, 2023. 

Earlier, the Orissa High Court had expressed concern over the inadequate number of doctors and basic facilities in government-run hospitals in the State and directed the Health department to address the issues immediately.

The court’s order came while going through the findings of a report filed by the Odisha State Legal Services Authority (OSLSA) on the facilities in 30 district headquarters hospitals and other primary and community health centres.