Medical Colleges cannot make do with in-charge Deans: TNGDA

Chennai:The Tamil Nadu Government Doctors’ Association(TNGDA), has in no uncertain terms in a plea submitted to the government made it clear that posts of Deans cannot be run by in charge officers, as they lack authority, interest and dedication to carry out the tasks of the post. This is the case as they are constantly aware of the fact that theirs is a short term assignment which will be over in no time with the coming in of a permanent replacement.

The promotion of the former Dean of Madras Medical College (MMC), Dr R. Vimala, as the Director of Medical Education (DME) in early 2016, has seen the appointment of two Deans and two Deans-in-charge in the college. The government confesses to have filled all Dean positions in all medical colleges across the state. Posts of DME and Director of Health Services (DMS) however, are still lying vacant .

“After Dr Vimala’s promotion, the government brought in Dr Isaac Christian Moses, Dean, Stanley Medical College and Hospital, to serve as dean in-charge in MMC as well, as a stop-gap arrangement. Dr Muralidharan was then transferred as Dean from Trichy Medical College to the same post at MMC,” said, President, Tamil Nadu Government Doctors’ Association (TNGDA). Dr K.Senthil.

However, as he was due to retire in January, Medical Superintendent Dr Narayanasamy was made Dean in-charge until a regular Dean was brought in.

“Dr. Narayana Babu, former Dean, Kilpauk Medical College (KMC), was transferred as Dean of MMC, with the responsibility of DME in-charge alongside,” added the doctor.

The TNGDA in a representation submitted stating that appointing a Dean-in-charge instead of a regular dean is not acceptable, especially in such a premier institute like MMC and have asked the government to give the Deans sufficient time in service, wherever they are posted.

It has also urged the government to ensure no posts are kept vacant and managed with in-charge officers, as they lack both authority and interest to carry out the responsibilities with dedication, since they are always aware of the temporary status of the position, which would come to an end with the permanent replacement of Dean.

“When a Dean retires, whoever is senior most, and qualified, will be appointed. As a doctor and Dean at the hospital, I am available at all hours for service. Also, I ensure that my responsibilities as DME in-charge are also carried out smoothly and that I attend to all calls and requirements,” said Dr Babu.

Stating that a Dean’s post is a crucial post where the seniority of those deserving it cannot be overlooked, an official told Deccan Chronicle, “The present lot of Deans appointed to medical colleges across the state, all have sufficient tenure. The panel with regard to the DME is also in an advanced stage of finalization. However, for the DMS post, there isn’t anyone with adequate experience and we are hoping that the post is filled soon.”