Seoul’s Largest Hospitals Reduce Surgeries by a Third Amid Trainee Doctor Strike over Proposed Health Reforms
Hospitals in Seoul, South Korea have been forced to cancel or postpone surgeries and medical procedures, including treatments for cancer, as more trainee doctors continue their strike in protest of proposed health reforms. This has led to a significant impact on healthcare services, with some of the biggest general hospitals in Seoul reducing their surgery capacities by up to 50%.
The strike, which began as a protest against the government’s plan to increase the number of students admitted to medical schools, has now resulted in the participation of almost two-thirds of the country’s young doctors. The government’s proposal aims to address the increasing demand for healthcare services in a society that is rapidly aging.
While doctors argue that the reforms will negatively impact service provision and education quality, critics believe that the trainee doctors are mainly concerned about potential reductions in their salaries and social prestige. The ongoing work stoppage has become a cause for concern as it has affected the treatment of various conditions, including cancer and pregnancies.
The recent developments have sparked a debate between the government and the medical community, with President Yoon Suk-yeol’s administration threatening to arrest those leading the walkout. Despite these measures, public surveys have shown that a majority of Koreans support the government’s plan, with approximately 76% of respondents in favor of the proposed reforms.
In response to the situation, the trainee doctors, through the Korea Interns and Residents Association, have expressed their willingness to be arrested in order to ensure that their demands are heard. They have also expressed openness to dialogue if the government is willing to engage with them.
As the strike continues, hundreds of Seoul doctors are planning to hold a rally in front of President Yoon’s office to further demonstrate their stance on the matter. It remains to be seen how this standoff will be resolved and how it will impact the future of healthcare in South Korea.
Historical Context:
This strike is not the first of its kind in South Korea. In 2019, trainee doctors went on a similar strike to oppose the government’s plan to increase the number of medical students. The issue reflects the ongoing struggle to balance the increasing healthcare needs of the population with the concerns of medical professionals, highlighting the complex challenges faced by the healthcare system in South Korea.
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