Govt working to provide incentives for doctors serving in remote areas: Sakina Itoo

Srinagar, Oct 20: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakina Itoo, on Monday said the government is actively considering a proposal to provide special incentives to doctors serving in far-flung and remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir to encourage them to continue their services in such challenging conditions.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a function in Boniyar, in the Uri constituency, Sakina Itoo said the move aims to motivate medical professionals posted in rural and inaccessible areas who often face difficult working and living conditions.

“We must understand that doctors are also human beings and part of our society. They handle a huge patient rush and face several hardships, especially those posted in remote areas. Their demand for incentives is genuine,” she said.

The minister acknowledged that many doctors in rural areas struggle due to inadequate accommodation and lack of basic facilities, yet incentives are often extended to those serving in urban centres.

“It is unfortunate that incentives are being given to doctors working in nearby or city hospitals, while those in far-flung areas remain neglected. The government is working to change that,” she said.

On the issue of basic infrastructure in rural health centres, Sakina Itoo said the government has made “considerable progress” in improving healthcare delivery in these areas.

“Boniyar is one of the far-off regions, and since our government took charge, surgeries are now being conducted here itself. Patients no longer need to travel to Baramulla or other hospitals for minor procedures,” she said.

Highlighting the ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, the minister said that the government is equipping Government Medical Colleges (GMCs) across the Union Territory with modern infrastructure and advanced medical technology.

“However, installing high-end machines will serve no purpose if trained professionals are not available to operate them. We want to ensure that both the equipment and the experts to handle them are available at every hospital,” Sakina Itoo said.

Addressing complaints about the non-availability of Senior Residents (SRs) at GMC Baramulla, the minister said she has already reviewed the issue and directed necessary corrective measures.

“Some doctors who had been posted there for years have been shifted, and more such transfers will follow to improve efficiency and accountability,” she said.

Responding to complaints from elderly patients facing difficulties with online registration for OPD tickets, the health minister said the government has already taken note of the issue.

“All hospitals, especially GMCs, have been instructed to keep provisions for offline registration for elderly citizens and those unable to use smartphones,” Sakina Itoo said.