Punjab Doctors to Get Promotions: Government Restores ACP Scheme Punjab government issued a notification for the restoration of the long-pending Assured Career Progression (ACP) scheme, which brings much-needed relief to doctors in the state. The notification was released on Monday and fulfilled one of the key demands of medical professionals, which had been stalled for years. The Punjab Civil Services Association (PCSSA) has welcomed the decision, terming it a step forward in improving the morale and working conditions of government doctors.
Dr. Akhil Sareen, President of the Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA), said that the restoration of the ACP scheme would put an end to the frequent strikes by doctors, as it addresses one of their most pressing concerns.
“The ACP scheme had been pending for years, and its reinstatement will not only ensure fair career progression for doctors but will also contribute to retaining experienced medical professionals within the department,” said Dr. Sareen. He added that this development would ultimately strengthen Punjab’s public healthcare system, which has been grappling with challenges due to a shortage of skilled personnel. Besides the restoration of ACP, Dr Sareen brought to the fore other recent steps the state government had taken to benefit the medical fraternity.
The health department has undertaken the process of recruiting 304 medical officers in order to supplement the manpower strength of the healthcare system. It has also streamlined its postgraduate policy to help retain young doctors, which is another long-standing demand of the PCMSA.
The government has also assured the medical community that measures will be taken to provide them with greater safety and security. Dr. Sareen revealed that a draft is being prepared for the appointment of security personnel in healthcare facilities, which aims to address the concerns related to workplace violence so that the doctors and their staff are facilitated to work in a safe environment.
According to them, these reforms would make for a more stable health care sector in Punjab and better working conditions for doctors. In addition, PCMSA appeals to the state government to remain committed to rectifying issues surrounding public health service delivery so as to ensure adequate healthcare services for everyone in the province.