IGMH revises duty policy for pregnant staff
The decision comes after backlash over a previous internal memo, which many felt could have restricted the flexibility traditionally granted to these employees.
In response to public criticism, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) on Monday changes to its policy concerning duty arrangements for pregnant staff and employees with young children.
The decision comes after backlash over a previous internal memo, which many felt could have restricted the flexibility traditionally granted to these employees.
In a statement issued by the hospital, IGMH acknowledged that the earlier memo had been worded in a way that might have suggested the cessation of duty-related accommodations for pregnancy and childbirth.
However, the hospital emphasised that the existing concessions for pregnant employees would remain unchanged.
The hospital explained that, as a 24-hour healthcare facility, it is crucial to maintain efficient patient care.
While acknowledging the importance of duty flexibility, the statement noted that shorter or altered shifts could negatively impact patient services.
The new policy aims to strike a balance between ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services and providing reasonable accommodations for employees with specific needs.
IGMH has committed to offering duty flexibility on a case-by-case basis, ensuring that the individual circumstances of staff members are considered.
The revised policy also allows for employees, including pregnant staff or those with young children, to request reassignment to departments with more manageable workloads. If such requests are made, IGMH will facilitate transfers to temporary, convenient roles that better suit their needs during this period.
IGMH concluded its statement by reiterating its commitment to providing ease of duty without compromising the hospital’s operations or the quality of care delivered to patients.
