South Korea’s Efforts to Address Doctor Shortage
South Korea has announced the allocation of 2,000 new medical school admission slots nationwide every year as part of a reform plan to increase the number of doctors in the country. This decision comes amidst a monthlong strike by physicians opposing the reforms.
Impact of Doctor Strike
Thousands of junior doctors went on strike on February 20, leading to the cancellation of crucial treatments and surgeries in hospitals. Despite this, the government is determined to move forward with the reform plan and has threatened legal action against the striking physicians.
Need for More Doctors
South Korea faces challenges due to one of the lowest doctor-to-population ratios among developed nations and the needs of its aging population. The allocation of new medical school slots aims to address this issue.
Focus on Underserved Areas
The majority of the new slots have been awarded to universities outside the Seoul capital region, highlighting the government’s efforts to enhance medical capacity in rural areas. Education Minister Lee Ju-ho emphasized the importance of establishing competitive regional medical systems.
Concerns and Criticisms
While the government sees the reforms as a step towards global standards, the Korean Medical Association (KMA) has criticized the allocation, warning of potential catastrophic consequences. Doctors express concerns about the impact on service quality and medical education, while supporters of the plan accuse them of prioritizing financial interests.
Government Response
With junior doctors continuing their strike, the government has taken a firm stance, threatening to suspend the licenses of those who do not return to work. Recent actions, such as the suspension of senior doctors’ licenses, demonstrate the authorities’ commitment to enforcing the law that prohibits doctors from striking.