Surgeon Attack Sparks Statewide OPD Standstill, Doctors Call for Action

Patna: A wave of disruption has swept across healthcare services in Bihar today as Outpatient Department (OPD) services grind to a halt in the wake of an attack on Purnia- based surgeon Rajesh Paswan. The assault followed the unfortunate death of a patient at his clinic in Purnia, sending shockwaves through medical facilities across the state, including the prestigious Patna Medical College Hospital (PMCH).

In solidarity with Dr. Rajesh Paswan, doctors have initiated a one-day work boycott, bringing OPD services to a standstill in both government and private hospitals. The impact is particularly evident at PMCH, where routine medical consultations have been suspended, affecting countless patients.

Emergency services, however, remain operational during this period, ensuring that critical healthcare needs are still met.

The incident has prompted a coordinated response from medical professionals, with the Indian Medical Association (IMA) calling for a special meeting on November 22 to address the escalating situation. During this gathering, the IMA will formulate a strategy to address the challenges arising from the attack on Dr. Paswan and discuss measures to ensure the safety of healthcare practitioners.

The joint call for a boycott by the Bihar Health Services Association (Bhasa) and the IMA has garnered widespread support, amplifying the impact on medical services throughout the state.

Condemning the attack, the state unit of the IMA has expressed its disapproval, highlighting the presence of police during the incident. The medical body has called for immediate action against the perpetrators under the Bihar Medical Institute and Individual Safety Rules of 2018.