T’puram: Indian Medical Association (IMA) Kerala branch has urged the state govt to reconsider the salary structure of junior doctors, describing the remuneration currently offered to them as inadequate and disappointing.The demand comes in the wake of a recent notification issued by the Govt Medical College, Thrissur, inviting applications for the post of casualty medical officer (CMO) with a monthly salary of Rs 42,000 for MBBS-qualified doctors.In a statement issued here on Saturday, IMA Kerala said the salary does not reflect the qualifications, responsibilities and demanding nature of the profession. It pointed out that doctors undergo more than five-and-a-half years of medical education and compulsory training before taking up duties that involve making critical decisions in emergency situations and handling medico-legal responsibilities.The association cited a comparison with a university security officer post in Kerala, which requires only a BSc qualification and offers a starting salary ranging from Rs 55,200 to Rs 1,15,300 per month. However, IMA clarified that it was not questioning the pay scales of other govt employees but highlighting the need for fair compensation for junior doctors.According to the association, junior doctors form the backbone of govt hospitals, providing round-the-clock services in casualty departments, ICUs, medical and surgical wards, and labour rooms. They often work continuous night shifts under significant physical and mental stress while meeting patients’ expectations and fulfilling legal obligations.IMA Kerala also expressed concern over the growing migration of young doctors to other states and foreign countries in search of better salaries and working conditions. It warned that failure to provide adequate financial recognition could adversely affect the state’s ability to retain skilled medical professionals.The association reiterated its earlier demand that junior doctors be paid a minimum monthly salary of Rs 80,000, stating that such remuneration is essential to ensure dignity, job satisfaction and the long-term sustainability of Kerala’s public healthcare system.
