Private inpatient treatment banned for govt. doctors; State allows limited OPD practice with strict conditions

Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Department issues immediate order restricting private practice of government doctors, citing impact on public hospital services and patient care.

The Karnataka government has imposed strict restrictions on private practice by government doctors, completely banning inpatient (IPD) treatment in private hospitals, while allowing limited outpatient (OPD) practice under clearly defined conditions. The order has been issued by the Health and Family Welfare Department and comes into effect immediately.

According to the government order, doctors employed in government hospitals are prohibited from providing inpatient care in private hospitals or nursing homes. The state has clarified that private IPD practice by government doctors has been adversely affecting services in government hospitals, leading to neglect of patients and, in some cases, reported deaths.

The decision follows reports from the Lokayukta and other oversight bodies, which flagged serious concerns over doctors prioritising private hospitals over their government duties. Based on these findings, the state government decided to bring in tighter controls, on the lines of regulations already implemented in other states.

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While enforcing the ban on private inpatient care, the government has allowed restricted private OPD practice, subject to strict safeguards to ensure that public healthcare services are not disrupted.

Under the new rules, government doctors can offer only outpatient consultation in the private sector, and that too strictly outside official duty hours. Doctors are permitted to practise OPD services at only one private clinic or hospital, and they must mandatorily inform the government about the location and details of their private practice.

The order clearly states that private practice should not interfere with government responsibilities in any manner. Patient care, availability of doctors, and services in government hospitals must remain the top priority.

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The government has also warned of strict disciplinary action against doctors who violate these rules. Any breach will invite action under the Karnataka Civil Services Rules, including departmental proceedings.

Officials said the move aims to restore public trust in government hospitals, ensure accountability, and improve patient care by ensuring doctors remain available during official working hours.

The Health Department emphasised that the regulations are not meant to penalise doctors but to balance professional freedom with public responsibility, especially in a state-run healthcare system.