Punjab Passes Locum Hiring Act to Tackle Staff Gaps
The Punjab Assembly has passed the Locum Hiring Act 2025, marking a move to resolve the ongoing shortage of medical staff in public healthcare facilities.
The newly enacted law authorizes the provincial government to temporarily recruit qualified doctors and specialists, ensuring smooth healthcare delivery.
As per the details, a Locum Policy Committee will be formed to oversee the recruitment process, maintain transparency, and ensure proper policy enforcement across all institutions.
The committee, led by the Provincial Health Minister, will include the Health Secretary, three medical experts, and one Human Resource Department representative.
It will define the Terms of Reference for locum appointments, including service duration, eligibility criteria, and pay structure to ensure fair and consistent implementation.
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The act also mandates that all locum vacancies be advertised in at least two newspapers prior to hiring to maintain openness and equal opportunity.
According to the legislation, professionals hired under locum arrangements will not be entitled to claim permanent government employment at any stage.
Officials explained that this initiative aims to provide hospitals with flexibility in staffing and ensure uninterrupted healthcare services despite ongoing manpower constraints.
The Locum Hiring Act 2025 is expected to enhance healthcare system, allowing quicker responses to staff shortages and better patient care across the province.
