In a significant move to enhance the well-being of its resident doctors, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has issued a directive limiting their working hours. Effective from August 21, 2025, the new guidelines stipulate that:
- Maximum Duty Hours: Resident doctors should not exceed 12 hours of continuous active duty per day.
- Weekly Working Hours: A maximum of 48 hours per week is mandated.
- Weekly Off: One weekly holiday is to be provided on a rotational basis.
These measures aim to align with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s 1992 notification, which set similar standards for resident doctors across the country. Despite these guidelines, reports indicate that many institutions have not fully implemented them, leading to concerns about the health and safety of medical professionals.
Challenges in Implementation
While the new directive is a positive step, its practical application faces challenges. Resident doctors at AIIMS have expressed concerns about the feasibility of these guidelines without an increase in manpower. Dr. Sai Kaustubh, President of the Resident Doctors’ Association of AIIMS Delhi, highlighted that the current strength of residents is insufficient to meet the demands of patient care while adhering to the new duty hour limits. Without additional staffing, implementing these changes may compromise the quality of healthcare services.
Legal Backing and Advocacy
The United Doctors’ Front (UDF) has been actively advocating for the enforcement of the 1992 residency scheme. Their efforts led to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court, which issued a notice to the Centre and the National Medical Commission (NMC) regarding the non-implementation of the prescribed duty hour limits. The PIL emphasizes that the prolonged working hours of resident doctors violate their fundamental rights and adversely affect their health and well-being.
Implications for Medical Education and Patient Care
The implementation of regulated duty hours for resident doctors is expected to have several positive outcomes:
- Improved Mental and Physical Health: Adequate rest and manageable working hours can reduce burnout and stress among medical professionals.
- Enhanced Patient Care: Well-rested doctors are likely to make better clinical decisions, leading to improved patient outcomes.
- Attraction and Retention of Talent: A balanced work-life schedule can make the medical profession more appealing to prospective students and help retain existing staff.
Conclusion
The recent directive by AIIMS to limit resident doctors’ duty hours is a commendable step towards ensuring their well-being and enhancing the quality of healthcare services. However, for these guidelines to be effectively implemented, it is crucial to address the staffing shortages and ensure that institutions adhere to the prescribed standards. Continued advocacy and monitoring are necessary to uphold the rights of resident doctors and maintain the integrity of medical education and patient care.
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