Nursing associations have appealed to the Union Health Ministry to implement a transfer policy that would allow married healthcare professionals to relocate either to their hometowns or to be closer to their spouse’s workplace. They believe such a policy would significantly enhance their quality of life by promoting a better work-life balance, reducing travel time, and fostering family unity.
In a formal request, the All India Government Nurses Federation highlighted the struggles faced by many healthcare workers, particularly married women, who are stationed far from their families. The federation noted that these healthcare workers often experience emotional and personal hardships, which can negatively affect their children’s education, lead to distress, and cause demoralization. This, in turn, impacts their mental and emotional well-being.
The federation also emphasized that introducing a transfer policy based on spouse relocation or mutual transfer could create a more supportive and conducive work environment. “Many affiliated units have requested this policy to be implemented immediately in light of the challenges their members are facing,” the federation wrote. The statement highlighted how being away from family exacerbates emotional strain, particularly for single and married women working far from home.
The association pointed out that the transfer policy is not new and has already been successfully implemented in several other government sectors, including the Central Health Services (CHS), ISRO, Food Corporation of India (FCI), Railways, and Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC). According to the nursing federation, this policy would not only boost employee morale but also help reduce staff turnover, lower housing rental costs (HRA), and enhance the overall productivity of healthcare professionals.
The proposal also addressed various factors that affect healthcare workers stationed in unfamiliar locations, such as differences in geography, language, cuisine, ethnicity, and climate. Additionally, issues related to dependents' health or spouse’s illnesses were also raised as critical concerns that the policy could alleviate.
In closing, the federation stressed that the transfer policy is essential for creating a healthier, more supportive working environment for healthcare professionals and for improving the overall functioning of the healthcare sector.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)
