Patiala, Nov. 28 -- Despite a persistent shortage of medical specialists, the Punjab government has not appointed regular specialists since 2022, worsening an already strained healthcare system.

Official data shows that of 2,098 sanctioned posts for medical specialists, only 1,000 are currently filled, leaving a vacancy rate of 47%. The crisis is deepened by high attrition, with many specialists reportedly quitting due to heavy workloads, low pay, limited incentives and minimal career progression.

In several districts, the shortage is acute-some have just one specialist for the entire district. Patiala, for instance, has only one psychiatrist in its health department.

The situation in Ludhiana, currently battling rising dengue cases, i...