Cost, reduced regional allowance deter doctors from Sabah, Sarawak postings
KUALA LUMPUR: Cost of living and a reduction in regional allowances following the implementation of the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) are among the factors believed to be discouraging some medical officers from accepting postings in Sabah and Sarawak.
KUALA LUMPUR: The rising cost of living and diminished regional allowances under the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) are causing medical officers to reconsider postings in Sabah and Sarawak, according to Hartal Doktor Kontrak (HDK) spokesman Dr Muhammad Yassin. Some doctors are even rejecting permanent appointments due to the financial implications, particularly those with families who face additional costs like accommodation and travel.
The SSPA system has incorporated the regional allowance into the Regional Incentive Payment, indirectly reducing the financial allure for doctors relocating from the peninsula, especially those with families. Dr Muhammad highlighted that permanent appointments are not consistently offered, with some doctors only getting one opportunity during their service.
After seven years, if a permanent appointment or a new contract is not provided, doctors may have to shift to the private sector. Dr Sivanaesan Letchumanan, president of the Malaysian Medical Association, emphasized the need to understand the reasons behind doctors' decisions before taking any action, as addressing the root causes without taking action could result in more doctors leaving the public healthcare system, which is already in a manpower shortage.
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