Although the Karnataka Government Medical Officers Association (KGMOA) district unit claimed the support of 90 per cent of the government doctors, or roughly 75 doctors, there has been little disruption in medical services in the district.
District Health Officer O. Srirangappa said the strike had little effect with only the Belthangady Taluk Hospital noting a reduction in operations. “District hospitals have a tie-up with private hospitals, and so services are unaffected. It is only in Belthangady Taluk hospital, which was facing a staff crunch, that operations have been limited to emergency cases,” he said.
District Surveillance Officer Rajesh B.V. and KGMOA district president Durga Prasad were among the contingent of 25 doctors from the district to agitate in Bangalore over the weekend. “Unlike other districts, the effect in Dakshina Kannada has been minimal. I cannot tell how many doctors who support us have boycotted their work,” Dr. Prasad told The Hindu from Bangalore.
However, the association hoped for support from auxiliary nurses and midwives, and pharmaceutical and other designated workers to strengthen their boycott here.