More than 1,000 Emergency Medical Officers in Punjab have lost their contract jobs just a few days before Eid, leaving many doctors unemployed at a very difficult time.
These contract positions were introduced in 2018 to strengthen emergency healthcare services across the province.
Doctors hired under this program were offered a monthly salary of Rs150,000, along with a promise of an annual increase. For many young doctors, these jobs were an important source of income and professional experience.
However, the situation has suddenly changed. Doctors who were recently appointed in February have already received termination notices, ending their employment much earlier than expected. On the other hand, those who were hired in June have been told they can continue working only until their contracts officially expire.
This decision has created uncertainty and stress among medical professionals. Many of the affected doctors are now worried about their future, especially with Eid approaching, a time when financial responsibilities usually increase. Losing a job at such a moment has added to their concerns.
The move has also raised questions about workforce planning in the healthcare sector. Emergency Medical Officers play a key role in hospitals, especially in handling urgent cases and supporting patient care.
