Question : Vacancy of Physiotherapists in CGHS

Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:

(a) whether a number of posts of physiotherapists in Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) are vacant, if so, the details thereof along with the number of physiotherapists posted in the CGHS;

(b) whether recruitment rules for physiotherapists were framed/amended recently in accordance with the guidelines of the Department of Personnel and Training;

(c) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; and

(d) whether the Government proposes to appoint physiotherapists to the CGHS dispensaries keeping in view of rising demand for physiotherapy and if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND
FAMILY WELFARE
(SHRI ASHWINI KUMAR CHOUBEY)
(a) to (c): No. At present, there are no vacant posts of Physiotherapist in CGHS. There is only one sanctioned post of Physiotherapist in CGHS, which is filled up. Recruitment rules for the same have not been framed/amended recently. As per recommendation of 7th Central Pay Commission, the posts of physiotherapists have been upgraded and the minimum qualification has also been raised from Diploma to Degree. Ministry of Health & Family Welfare is consulting Department of Personnel and Training to amend the recruitment rules accordingly.
(d) No such proposal is pending before the Government at present. CGHS Wellness Centres are meant for primary healthcare and are manned by General Duty Medical Officers. Physiotherapy being a rehabilitative treatment, requires specialized care, specific equipment etc., Physiotherapy as a modality of treatment is not available at CGHS Wellness Centres. In case of patients requiring physiotherapy, they can avail physiotherapy at the empanelled public/ private hospitals where it is available.
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