Coimbatore: In a bid to show solidarity with their counterparts in West Bengal, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) had announced a 24-hour strike by its doctor-members starting 6 am on Monday.
In Coimbatore, thousands of doctor-members of IMA lent their support by responding to the strike call. As part of the strike, all non-essential services were being withdrawn, leaving only casualty and emergency services functional.
“As many as 1,000 private hospitals doctors besides another 500 doctors who run private clinics are participating in the strike. Even small clinics are participating in the strike demanding protection for the medical fraternity from violence.” Dr K. Mariappan, president of IMA, Coimbatore chapter said.
While nearly 20 states including Tamil Nadu have an act in place to protect doctors and the medical staff against violence at workplace, introduction of a Central Healthcare Protection Act is need of the hour, demanded members of the IMA.
“Through the 24-hour strike, we request the public to understand the fact that unexpected events can or may occur while providing treatment to the patient.” Dr. Mariappan added. Another request also made by the IMA to the government is to declare that medical fa-
cilities are protected areas.
At the office of the Coimbatore chapter of the IMA a section of doctors staged a protest on Monday.
Medical practitioners from the Siddha, Ayurveda and Homeopathy field of medicine also lent their support by participating in the protest.
