24x7 specialty services in Keralam hospitals: KGMOA, govt. iron out differences
KGMOA State leadership, which met Health Minister K. Muraleedharan, says that most of its major apprehensions regarding the government’s move were addressed
The Kerala Government Medical Officers’ Association (KGMOA) and the State government have resolved their disagreements over the implementation of 24x7 specialty care services in selected hospitals across districts in Kerala. At a meeting between Health Minister K. Muraleedharan and the doctors on Sunday, August 30, 2026, the KGMOA stated that all concerns and suggestions were discussed with the Minister, resulting in a positive and constructive dialogue.
The health minister pledged to address the issues raised by the KGMOA, including the provision of nine specialist doctors per specialty in each hospital, and the creation of sufficient specialist positions within three months. In the interim, doctors can be redeployed from peripheral institutions, with special allowances provided if necessary.
The 24x7 service will be piloted and reviewed monthly, with additional posts created based on workload requirements. The KGMOA also welcomed the government's assurance of addressing existing vacancies within a month, expediting promotions, and ensuring adequate paramedical staff for the smooth functioning of the proposed specialty services.
Additionally, the government has promised a special incentive of 30% of current pay for health service doctors in underserved districts.
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