South Korea Suspends Medical Licenses of Doctors Amid Strike
South Korea has suspended the medical licenses of two doctors, as a punitive measure over a monthlong strike that has disrupted healthcare services in the country. The Korean Medical Association (KMA) announced the suspension on Tuesday.
Background of the Strike
Thousands of junior doctors initiated the strike on February 20 to protest government reforms aimed at addressing physician shortages and the challenges posed by an aging population. The strike has led to the cancellation of essential medical treatments and surgeries, impacting patient care across the country.
Government’s Response
The government has called for doctors to return to work, threatening legal action for noncompliance. Despite these warnings, the standoff continues, with senior doctors now considering joining the strike, and no significant negotiations taking place.
Health Ministry officials have taken administrative actions against individual physicians, including the suspension of two KMA officials’ medical licenses for three months, allegedly for their involvement in instigating the strike.
Controversy and Reactions
The KMA has criticized the government’s handling of the situation, accusing it of employing intimidation tactics. The government, however, maintains its stance on the necessity of healthcare reforms to address the country’s doctor-to-population ratio.
President Yoon Suk Yeol emphasized the importance of the reforms, stating that medical licenses should not be misused for political purposes. The government is open to dialogue with the medical community, although it remains firm on implementing the reform plan.
Public Opinion and International Involvement
While the reform plan has garnered public support, a recent poll indicated that a significant portion of the population favors negotiations to resolve the strike. Junior doctors have sought intervention from the International Labor Organization, alleging coercion by the government.
The reforms aim to enhance medical services in regions outside the capital, addressing the issue of doctor distribution imbalance in South Korea.