Permanent posts for contract doctors will help stem brain drain, says APHM

Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh, president of the Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia (APHM), has stated that offering permanent positions to doctors who complete their housemanship can help curb the country's brain drain and bolster the healthcare workforce. This move would provide young doctors with job security and clearer career paths, encouraging them to stay in Malaysia rather than seeking opportunities abroad.

Singh expressed satisfaction with the resolution of the contract doctor issue and commended the government for providing permanent posts to doctors completing their housemanship. He emphasized that this would grant young doctors the job security and career prospects they deserve. The move also tackles the brain drain problem, as many talented doctors have been drawn to other countries due to better prospects and greater stability.

Singh believes that retaining these skilled professionals in Malaysia would result in a stronger and more stable healthcare workforce. A larger domestic healthcare workforce could potentially improve hospital staffing levels and reduce waiting times for consultations and treatment. Furthermore, the APHM president highlighted that these measures, combined with increased public-private collaboration, would ensure Malaysians receive timely and high-quality healthcare.

The Health Ministry's budget for next year has been increased to RM47.7 billion, up from RM46.5 billion. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced during the budget presentation that the government would address the contract doctor issue. Since 2023, over 15,000 contract doctors have been appointed to permanent positions, including 4,000 in the past year alone.

Additionally, more than 9,000 contract doctors will be offered permanent medical officer positions next year, with those who successfully complete their housemanship being granted these permanent roles.