Delays in Surgeries and Treatments Reported
Trainee doctors in South Korea have taken a bold stand against the government’s medical policy, with many submitting their resignations in protest. This move has led to reported delays in surgeries and other medical treatments at hospitals across the country. Despite these disruptions, South Korea’s medical service has not experienced any major breakdowns yet.
Government Push for More Medical School Admissions
The crux of the issue lies in the government’s plan to increase medical school admissions by 2,000 starting next year. Health authorities argue that the country urgently needs more doctors due to its fast-aging population. However, doctors’ groups are pushing back, insisting that the government address existing challenges such as raising medical fees before expanding medical school admissions.
Impact on Patient Care
The collective action taken by trainee doctors, including submitting resignation letters and walking off their jobs, has already disrupted medical services at major hospitals. Reports indicate that planned surgeries, including cancer surgeries and child births, have been canceled or postponed. The situation remains fluid as hospitals scramble to reschedule treatments for affected patients.
Government Response and Future Plans
In response to the crisis, Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo expressed concerns over the trainee doctors’ actions and ordered them to continue their duties per medical law. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assured the public that emergency medical treatment centers would remain operational, with plans to deploy military doctors if necessary to prevent any deterioration in patient care. The Korea Medical Association is considering holding rallies in support of the trainee doctors, further complicating the already tense situation.