The Punjab government has approved a new policy to hire medical professionals on a temporary basis under the Punjab Locum Hiring Act 2025, aiming to overcome persistent staff shortages in the province’s health sector.
The law provides for the formation of a Locum Policy Committee, headed by the provincial health minister, with the secretary serving as vice chairperson. The committee will also include three field experts and a human resources representative to ensure fair and efficient hiring practices.
Its primary responsibilities will include identifying areas with acute staff shortages, defining terms of reference for locum recruitment, and determining the duration, salary, and benefits of each appointment. The committee will also oversee transparent recruitment procedures and prepare standard contract agreements for temporary medical staff.
Before any hiring, job advertisements will be published in at least two newspapers, outlining the full recruitment process. The act clearly states that locum employees will not be eligible for permanent status or benefits equivalent to full-time government staff.
The committee will retain authority to extend or terminate contracts as needed, based on performance and institutional requirements.
Officials said the new law’s main objective is to fill critical gaps in healthcare services and ensure timely delivery of medical care in hospitals and health centers across Punjab.
