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A Parliamentary Standing Committee has recommended that resident doctors’ duty hours be structured on the lines of pilots to reduce fatigue-related errors and enhance patient safety. The panel observed that prolonged working hours, inadequate rest, and continuous duty schedules adversely affect both resident well-being and quality of patient care.
Key points:
Recommendation for regulated duty hours on the pattern of aviation standards with defined work–rest cycles Emphasis on mandatory rest periods and measures to reduce burnout among residents Concern that excessive workload and sleep deprivation may impair clinical judgement, decision-making, and patient safety Reference to the 1992 Residency Scheme, which already prescribes norms such as 48-hour weekly duty limits and 12-hour shifts Call for uniform implementation and monitoring of these provisions across medical institutions
The committee reportedly noted that despite existing guidelines, implementation remains inconsistent across institutions, with residents in many centres continuing to work extended shifts and prolonged on-call duties. The issue has repeatedly been linked to physical exhaustion, mental stress, and reduced work-life balance among trainees.
The recommendations revive long-standing discussions around resident working conditions in India, particularly amid increasing patient loads, workforce shortages, and demands for improved training environments. Similar concerns have previously been raised by resident associations and healthcare bodies.
Additionally, the committee chairperson has written to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare urging immediate intervention, including constitution of a high-level body to oversee implementation of duty regulations and ensure compliance nationwide.
If implemented effectively, the proposal could mark a significant shift toward structured residency schedules, balancing clinical training requirements with resident welfare and patient safety considerations.
The Medical Bulletin
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