Poor response to new contract scheme for doctors, say sources

In early July, the ministry advertised interim contract offers for 3,200 doctors, 450 dentists, and 300 pharmacists. Applications closed on July 31. (Reuters pic)

PETALING JAYA: 

Contract medical officers who quit the health service are believed to have snubbed the government’s offer of interim three-year contracts pending permanent positions.

A source said that there was a poor response to the offer, particularly from those who had quit government service, and the number of applicants for the interim contracts was generally below expectations.

The interim contract offer was made in early July for 3,200 doctors, 450 dentists, and 300 pharmacists. Applications closed on July 31. The health ministry said the scheme would be in place until a permanent solution is found.

The source said most contract officers felt it was meaningless to return to being at the mercy of ministry officials while waiting to be considered for permanent positions.

He said many of the contract doctors had quit because of the long wait for permanent posts, and another uncertain three-year wait was no lure for them to rejoin government service.

We understand the hospitals need trained doctors urgently. However, there must be more substantial and tangible incentives. A new three-year contract with the same terms makes no sense,

 the source told FMT.

Serving contract officers were also asked to apply even though their contracts had not expired yet. The offer was also open to hundreds of others who had quit government service over the past several years.

Others eligible for the interim contract include those whose services were terminated for reasons other than disciplinary action, as well as those who rejected permanent appointments or contract renewals.

According to the health ministry website, permanent positions could be offered at any time before the expiry of the three-year contract. The ministry would select those to be offered the positions, unlike the past practice of inviting doctors to apply.

One contract doctor who requested anonymity said the new scheme is merely a stopgap measure.

If the government really needs us and those who have quit, the offer must be more substantial. Nothing less than a permanent emplacement. Many want to leave to become general practitioners in private clinic chains,

 the doctor said.

He said private clinics offer a basic salary of RM10,000 a month, together with benefits such as EPF and Socso contributions, bonuses and annual leave. They don’t have to face the tough conditions and bullying by seniors at public medical institutions,” he said.

FMT has sought comment from the health ministry. - FMT