Better welfare support needed for rural healthcare workers in Sabah

KOTA KINABALU: Dr Brandon Patrick Senagang, chairman of the Malaysian Medical Association in Sabah, emphasized the need for improved welfare support for doctors and healthcare workers serving in rural and remote areas of the state. While the government's efforts to repair and upgrade healthcare facilities have been welcomed, Dr Senagang stressed that the welfare of those working in these areas should also be prioritized.

He recounted a town hall meeting with doctors from Keningau, where many shared their satisfaction with working in rural Sabah due to supportive colleagues, welcoming local communities, and appreciative patients. However, Dr Senagang highlighted the recurring issue of inadequate staff quarters, with limited or unavailable rental accommodations and some existing quarters being old, dilapidated, or in need of repairs.

This forced some doctors to commute long distances daily, adding financial costs and physical and mental fatigue. Other challenges included gaps in basic infrastructure such as water and electricity supply interruptions, poor road conditions, and their impact on healthcare workers' well-being. Dr Senagang suggested that the Sabah Government could help by identifying or allocating suitable land for staff quarters and improving essential amenities.

He also noted that retaining doctors in rural districts would benefit patients through greater continuity of care, as experienced doctors could build stronger relationships with communities and better understand local health challenges. Dr Senagang emphasized that the basic requirements for doctors working in rural areas were not luxurious but essential - a safe and suitable place to live, reliable water and electricity, and reasonable road access to perform their duties effectively.

He concluded that investing in the welfare of healthcare workers is crucial for the long-term sustainability of rural healthcare services in Sabah.