Odisha Doctor Suspended for Directing Patients to Private Pharmacies

A government doctor in Odisha has faced suspension following allegations of misconduct. According to officials, Hemanta Kumar Maharana, posted at the Dharmasala Community Health Centre in Jajpur district, reportedly directed patients to acquire medicines from private outlets instead of utilizing available resources at the community health centre.

The issue came to light after patients filed complaints with Health Secretary Aswathy S during her visit to the centre on Monday. This visit was prompted by a diarrhoea outbreak in the locality.

The Health and Family Welfare Department promptly issued a suspension order. Maharana has been instructed to report to the district headquarters hospital and is prohibited from leaving the station without prior permission from higher authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)