Reimbursement snub exposes dual service of Govt doctors
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, April 24 2025: A cancer patient's application for medical reimbursement has brought to light the growing trend of government doctors in the state stealthily engaging in private practice, despite a clear ban under state service rules.

The issue surfaced when the patient, who had received treatment at a private hospital operating in Imphal East district, submitted a reimbursement application to the State Medical Board.

The application included a certificate signed by a doctor currently serving under the Manipur Health Services.

The doctor's designation in the certificate was stated as "consultant medical oncologist" at the private hospital, and his registration details were also included.

His name appeared on the official letterhead of the hospital as well.

However, the doctor in question is officially posted as medical officer of a government health facility in Kakching district and is presently utilised under the Chief Medical Officer's (CMO) pool in Imphal West.

He has reportedly no assigned duty at present, and no disciplinary action has been initiated against him so far.

Meanwhile, the government facility where he is officially posted is grappling with staff shortages, and a doctor from the district hospital is currently visiting twice a week to assist.

This has raised concerns about the misuse of public resources and the neglect of essential healthcare services in rural areas.

In a related development, some professors at a government-run medical institute are also reportedly rendering service in a private hospital in Imphal West, further violating service norms.

According to the Manipur Health Services Rules, 2014, government doctors are strictly prohibited from engaging in private practice at non-government hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic centres.

This rule was reinforced by a state government order in November 2020 and reiterated by the then health minister in November 2024, who warned of legal consequences for any violations.

Despite repeated warnings and policy reinforcement, enforcement appears to be lacking, raising serious questions about accountability and governance in the state's public healthcare system.

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