227 specialist doctors appointed across Andhra Pradesh to strengthen public healthcare

In a major step toward improving the public healthcare system, the Andhra Pradesh government has appointed 227 specialist doctors across 142 secondary-level hospitals. The move aims to address the shortage of qualified doctors, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.

Recruited under in-service quota

According to Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav, these recruitments were made under the in-service quota for doctors who recently completed their postgraduate medical courses. The process was finalized by Dr. K.V.N. Chakradhar Babu, Director of Secondary Health, and Dr. Padmavathi, Director of Public Health, who briefed the minister on the allocation details.

The postings were decided through a structured counseling process, ensuring doctors are deployed strategically based on regional needs. Of the 227 newly appointed specialists, 155 doctors will be posted at Primary Health Centres (PHCs) to strengthen services at the grassroots level. Another 60 doctors will join 33 area hospitals, 10 doctors will be placed in 7 district hospitals, and 2 doctors will serve at Mother and Child Health (MCH) centres.

Specialists in 12 key disciplines

The appointed doctors hold postgraduate degrees in 12 different specializations. Director Chakradhar Babu confirmed that they have been successfully placed in hospitals requiring immediate attention. Minister Satyakumar Yadav noted that out of 243 secondary-level hospitals across the state, 142 now have specialist support through these appointments.

Among the new recruits, gynecologists (35) and general medicine specialists (35) form the largest groups. Other specialists include general surgeons (30), anesthesiologists (26), pediatricians (25), orthopedic surgeons (18), radiologists (17), ophthalmologists (15), and ENT specialists (9).

Filling key gaps in rural healthcare

Minister Satyakumar Yadav expressed satisfaction that the recruitment drive fills a major gap in the state’s secondary healthcare network. For example, Gudur Area Hospital received four specialists - a pediatrician, radiologist, dermatologist, and pathologist. Additionally, seven Community Health Centres and six Area Hospitals each received postings of three doctors.

The minister emphasized that the initiative will significantly enhance healthcare access and quality, ensuring that even smaller towns and rural regions have timely access to specialized medical services.