South Korean authorities have suspended the licenses of two senior doctors for allegedly inciting the weekslong walkouts by thousands of medical interns and residents that have disrupted hospital operations. The suspensions come after doctors-in-training protested the government's plan to increase medical school admissions, citing concerns about the capacity of schools to handle a sudden influx of students.
The government's recruitment plan aims to address the country's low doctor-to-population ratio, especially in light of South Korea's aging population. However, striking doctors argue that the plan could overwhelm medical services and lead to unnecessary treatments due to heightened competition.
In response to the strikes, the government has taken steps to suspend the licenses of striking junior doctors who refused to return to work. Police are also investigating senior members of the Korean Medical Association for allegedly encouraging the strikes.
Despite the disruptions caused by the strikes, officials maintain that the country's handling of emergency and critical patients remains stable. However, the ongoing walkouts have resulted in hundreds of canceled or postponed surgeries and treatments.
Senior doctors at major university hospitals have expressed support for the striking junior doctors by planning to submit resignations. The Vice Health Minister has urged senior doctors to cancel these plans and encourage the junior doctors to return to work, emphasizing the importance of not compromising patient care.
While the government's recruitment plan has garnered public support, critics argue that it could lead to challenges such as doctors favoring high-paying specialties and regions, potentially exacerbating existing disparities in healthcare access.
