Karnataka: Private doctors call off protest after meeting CM Siddaramaiah

After 5 days of strike, private doctors in Karnataka on Friday called off their strike against Karnataka Private Medical Establishment (Amendment) Bill 2017. This decision was taken after representatives of various associations of private doctors held a three-hour meeting with Chief Minister Siddharamaiah in Belgavi.

Immediately after the meeting, Chief Minister took it to Twitter and said, "I am happy my meeting with the representatives of Doctors was successful. We have succeeded in resolving all issues around KPME Bill".

Dr. Sudarshan Balal, Chairman of Manipal hospital said, "We had a very successful meeting with Chief Minister and all concerns were discussed. Instead of District Redressal committee, the district registration committee will handle grievances. Medical cases will be referred to Karnataka Medical Council, criminal cases will be based on existing laws."

The main concern of the private doctors was the amendment regarding the price cap which as per Dr. C Jayanna, president PHANA is now sorted out. Dr. C Jayanna said, "It was made clear to us that it was not a general cap but only for certain procedures for BPL patients. This cap will be decided by the experts committee. Additionally APL patients will receive 30% reimbursement for certain procedures.Penalty will also be graded with repeat offenders getting higher quantum.”

Earlier, Karnataka High Court while hearing PIL against private doctors’ strike, came down heavily on them and directed them to withdraw the strike immediately.

Meanwhile, hundreds of people belonging to various social organizations gathered at town hall Bengaluru on Friday and demonstrated their support to Karnataka Private Medical Establishment Bill and State government.

ALSO READ | Karnataka: Private doctors protesting medical bill go on indefinite strike in Bengaluru