Bihar Cracks Down on Private Practice by Govt Doctors to Fix Public Health System

The Bihar government, led by Nitish Kumar, has decided to ban private practice by doctors working in government hospitals, in a major push to improve public healthcare delivery.

Announced on Saturday, the decision bars government doctors from taking up private practice alongside their official duties, requiring them to commit fully to state-run health services.

Part of ‘Saat Nischay-3’ plan

The move is part of the state’s flagship ‘Saat Nischay-3’ programme for 2025–30. In a notification, the Health Department said the ban falls under the resolution “accessible health, secure life,” aimed at strengthening public health systems.

A formal resolution has been issued, with detailed implementation guidelines expected soon.

NPA to offset income loss

Officials said the government is considering a non-practising allowance (NPA) to compensate doctors for the loss of private income. The allowance will require approval from the competent authority and is expected to cover all government doctors and faculty in state-run institutions.

Policy long in the works

Kumar had earlier hinted at the move during his ‘Samriddhi Yatra’ in West Champaran, signalling plans to curb private practice and improve healthcare infrastructure.

Focus on accountability

The ban marks a significant shift in policy, aimed at ensuring better availability of doctors, reducing dual practice, and improving accountability in public hospitals — long-standing concerns in Bihar’s healthcare system.