How Meeting ‘Humiliation’ Impacts Health Officials’ Morale: Insights from PCMSA in Punjab

The Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA) has raised concerns about the treatment of doctors during video conferences. They say these meetings have turned into scenes of “humiliation and intimidation” by higher-ups. This has left health officials feeling demoralized. The association recently sent a letter to the principal secretary of the health department, warning that if this issue isn’t resolved, they might take stronger action, though they didn’t specify what that would be.

The PCMSA represents government doctors statewide. They expressed strong disapproval of the “bullying language” used against senior medical officers and civil surgeons. Many of these professionals have dedicated over 30 years to their careers, holding respected degrees like MBBS and MD. According to the association, constant humiliation not only undermines their authority but also damages their respect among peers.

While acknowledging the state government’s ambition to improve public healthcare, the PCMSA urged patience. They pointed out that issues in the health department are deep-rooted and won’t be fixed overnight. They warned that pushing officials to their limits could backfire, leading to even more stress and anxiety.

The association admitted that some doctors might not always meet expectations, but they emphasized that any disciplinary action should follow proper procedures without public shaming. They are concerned that ongoing disrespect could lead to higher attrition rates and deter younger doctors from entering the field, ultimately endangering the government’s health goals.

A senior health official, who preferred to remain anonymous, confirmed that they received the letter and plan to meet with the PCMSA soon.

The situation reflects a broader trend in workplace environments, where mental health is increasingly recognized as vital. According to a recent survey by the American Psychological Association, nearly 79% of workers reported experiencing stress related to disrespectful behavior at work. This supports the idea that treating professionals with dignity is essential for maintaining morale and effectiveness in any organization.

For more on improving workplace respect and mental health initiatives, you can explore resources from the World Health Organization here.

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