The postponement of the NEET PG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduate) exam has created significant distress among junior doctors. Many of these doctors have given up their jobs and invested substantial amounts of money and time in preparation for this crucial exam. The delay has left them in a state of uncertainty and anxiety.As reported by The Indian Express, Dr Akash Soni, a dedicated physician at a primary healthcare center in Singrauli, Madhya Pradesh, meticulously balanced his duties and NEET PG exam preparation by rotating shifts and seeking help from his seniors. After taking a three-day leave and travelling over 700 km to Bhopal, he faced crushing disappointment when the exam was postponed. “I wont get leave again, cant afford to quit either. My life is in limbo,” he says, tears of frustration in his eyes.Similarly, 23-year-old Dr Auwais Shaikh travelled seven hours from Solapur to Pune, spending Rs 10,000 on non-refundable travel and accommodation, only to learn the exam was cancelled. Dr Saheefa Hareem, set to join Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in Delhi on June 27, had to inform HR of her inability to start due to the uncertain exam schedule.Same like Dr Shaikh and Dr Soni, many doctors are now unclear about their future.These experiences reflect the plight of nearly two lakh MBBS graduates who sit for the NEET PG exam each year, vying for around 52,000 post-graduation seats. The repeated cancellations and postponements inflict severe emotional and financial stress on these aspirants, who already bear hefty coaching fees. Many have sacrificed their jobs to meet the exams rigorous standards, only to face an uncertain future without a backup plan.It is important to note that the uncertainty of entrance exams has left may aspirants waiting for action. Several junior doctors resigned from their jobs to focus entirely on exam preparation. With the postponement, they are now without an income and facing financial strain due to the costs associated with preparation, such as coaching fees, study materials, and living expenses.Apart from this, the uncertainty around the new exam date has caused significant mental stress. Preparing for such a competitive exam is inherently stressful, and the postponement has exacerbated this, leading to feelings of frustration and helplessness.The delay disrupts plans, including further education, career progression, and personal life events. This period of limbo makes it challenging to make any concrete plans or commitments.Meanwhile, it is worth noting, the postponement may also indirectly affect the healthcare system. Junior doctors are a vital part of the medical workforce, and their prolonged absence or preoccupation with exam preparation can impact patient care and hospital functioning.It should be highlighted that the situation underscores the need for timely and clear communication from authorities regarding the new exam schedule and any support measures to mitigate the impact on the affected doctors.
