The recent protest by doctors has brought to light the urgent issue of unemployment in the healthcare sector. Over 500 qualified medical professionals are currently without jobs, significantly affecting health services in the province.
Many healthcare professionals cite psychological distress due to prolonged unemployment, feeling unable to support their families while their communities face health service shortages.
The provincial government has acknowledged the issues raised by doctors and is looking into employing 25 out of 58 waiting doctors but faces budget constraints that limit these efforts.
In a recent protest, frustrated doctors in Panga took to the streets, voicing their urgent concern regarding widespread unemployment in the medical sector. Reports indicate that over 500 qualified doctors are currently seeking employment, leading to significant strains on health facilities across the province. The healthcare union has asserted that the provincial government is not prioritizing this critical issue, resulting in adverse effects on community health services. The union has highlighted the need for immediate action to address the alarming rate of unemployment among doctors. They stress that many healthcare professionals, who have undergone extensive education and training, are left without job opportunities. This situation has left both healthcare providers and the communities they serve in a precarious position, as gaps in medical staffing can lead to adverse health outcomes. With a pressing need for expanded healthcare services, especially mental health facilities in every district, the union is calling for the establishment of a dedicated healthcare faculty to train future medical professionals. Psychological and emotional struggles are also prevalent among unemployed doctors, as they express feelings of frustration and disappointment. Many doctors, including those who studied overseas, are facing challenges in finding employment despite being qualified to serve their communities. This plight not only affects their personal lives, with difficulties in providing for their families, but also highlights the broader issue of healthcare accessibility in poorer communities. Doctors urge the government to recognize their qualifications and contributions, emphasizing that compelling them to seek private employment is not a viable solution for the majority who serve in underprivileged regions. The government has acknowledged the challenges and indicated plans to engage with the provincial leadership regarding a resolution. However, financial constraints remain a significant barrier to employing all qualified doctors. The health minister announced that a budget has been set aside to hire 25 doctors out of the 58 still awaiting employment; unfortunately, many argue this is insufficient. The union has presented a 14-day ultimatum for the provincial government to take decisive actions in employing qualified doctors to serve the communities that desperately need their expertise.