In a major reform aimed at strengthening healthcare services, the Himachal Pradesh government on Sunday officially notified the separation of cadres in the Directorate of Medical Education (DME) and the Directorate of Health Services (DHS). The move is expected to streamline recruitment, address staff shortages, and enhance healthcare delivery across the State.
A spokesperson of the Health Department revealed that employees across various categories — including nursing, paramedical staff, ministerial staff, radiographers, operation theatre assistants, drivers, and Class-IV employees — were given the option to choose their preferred cadre. As per the finalized structure, 74.44 percent of the employees opted for DHS, with 14,573 staff members choosing to remain under DHS, while 5,002 opted for DME.
To ensure balanced staffing and operational efficiency, future recruitments will now be conducted separately for both directorates. This strategic shift is expected to resolve staffing gaps in healthcare institutions and improve service delivery, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
The decision aligned with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s broader vision of healthcare reforms in the State. Over the past two years, the government has taken multiple initiatives to upgrade medical infrastructure. In the coming months, outdated medical equipment in hospitals and health institutions will be replaced with advanced technology to enhance patient care.
Spokesperson said that the State Government would remain committed to strengthening healthcare services and will continue to implement necessary reforms to ensure accessible and high-quality medical care for the people of Himachal Pradesh.
