‘Forced to live a miserable life’

Non-government postgraduate resident trainee physicians yesterday demanded an increase in their monthly stipend from Tk 20,000 to Tk 50,000, since they believe their current salary is insufficient to cover their living expenses.

They presented their demands at a press conference held in the capital's Jatiya Press Club.

"Government physicians, with the same qualification receive a monthly salary of Tk 42,000, more than twice the salary we receive for the same duties," said Dr Habibur Rahman Suhag, a non-government resident surgeon at Chattogram Medical College.

By default, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical College (BSMMU) pays the allowance on behalf of the government.

"We did not receive any response from BSMMU authorities in the last two days. We will enforce a strike if the demands are not met by June 12," Suhag added.

Post-graduate trainee physicians are medical school graduates who pursue further specialised training in a specific medical field for 2-5 years to achieve higher degrees.

Their role is to provide direct patient care under the supervision of attending physicians, gain practical experience and refine their clinical skills.

According to the organisers, there are around 8,500 non-government post-graduate trainee physicians in all medical colleges, universities and specialised institutes in the country. They are not allowed to engage in private practice and are supposed to be on duty round-the-clock.

"We have no choice but to live a very miserable life. We need adequate financial support to fully concentrate on our training and service patients without any stress," said Suhag.

Speaking at the event as the chief guest, Prof Major (Retd) Abdul Ohab Minar said, "All the professional physicians'  organisations should come forward to press home this demand."

Contacted, Prof Sharafuddin Ahmed, vice chancellor of BSMMU, said, "I have discussed the issue with the health minister a week ago. He said he would take steps after discussing it with the prime minister."

The VC also said he has proposed to distribute the allocation to the respective institutions where the post-graduate physicians study.