Govt agrees to give equal opportunity, perks to contract doctors

 

Just days ahead of a planned nationwide strike by contract government doctors over alleged unfair treatment, Putrajaya today announced that it will provide them career path opportunities at par with their permanent colleagues.

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin in a statement said the government has agreed that contract doctors, dentists and pharmacists would receive perks similar to permanent positions, including a fully paid study leave to do their specialisation.

"As an immediate resolution, the cabinet agreed that all contracted medical officers, dentists, and pharmacists be offered two-year contract term after they conclude their mandatory service. This is to ensure continuity of service and as preparation for them to attain specialisation.

"The cabinet also agreed to extend contractual appointments for a maximum of four years to medical officers and dentists who are accepted to further study in specialisation during their first two-year contract. This is to ensure that the officers can successfully complete their respective specialisation training.

"The cabinet also understands the concern and issues faced by the contract medical officers, dentists and pharmacists in regard to their career path. To ensure that these groups get a fair and equal career path, the cabinet agreed that the contract officers are to receive treatment at par with permanent staff. They are to be offered fully-paid study leave and sponsorship, and federal training grant," said Muhyiddin.

On top of these, he added, the government would improve the benefits that are offered to the contract officers, including entitlement to special duties leave, tuberculosis Leave, and fare to visit their hometown.

[More to follow] - Mkini