KUALA LUMPUR: Seri Manjung Hospital will receive additional medical staff following reports of overburdened workloads faced by its medical officers.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said addressing the issue of overworked healthcare staff is a key part of the Health Ministry's (MOH) strategy, which includes implementing salary adjustments, flexible working schedules, and allowing locum practices to improve work-life balance in the short term.
"I fully recognise the MOH's current staffing constraints and understand the immense burden placed on our overworked professionals.
"These challenges are not unique to Seri Manjung Hospital but form part of a nationwide issue that we are committed to addressing," he said in a post on X.
Dr Dzulkefly acknowledged reports of over 6,000 doctors resigning in the past five years.
However, he said, this figure includes 3,200 contract medical officers who resigned to transition into permanent positions.
He said brain drain, particularly in the private sector, remains a pressing concern.
"In the medium term, the 'Rakan KKM Partnership' initiative will be a game-changer in reducing attrition rates by offering improved remuneration and enhancing public facilities through cross-subsidies from premium economy services.
"Long-term systemic reforms remain a priority.
"The Health White Paper outlines our vision for establishing the Health Services Commission, which will deliver sustainable solutions to staffing and operational challenges."
Dr Dzulkefly said the ministry is working closely with the Public Service Department and the Finance Ministry to secure the necessary resources and approvals.
"I remain steadfast in advancing the reforms we pledged, despite the resistance we face.
"Your dedication and support are crucial to achieving these reforms.
"Together, we can overcome these challenges and strengthen our healthcare system," he said in response to a question posed by Dr Rafidah Abdullah about the ministry's retention strategies raised on the platform.
Perak Health Department has previously denied claims of overburdened workloads for medical officers at Seri Manjung Hospital, as recently reported by a website.
Its director Dr Feisul Idzwan Mustapha said the frequency of on-call duties at the minor specialist hospital is comparable to other hospitals and is not considered overly taxing.