A proposal signed by the Senior Chief Executive of the Ministry of Health has sparked frustration among general practitioners. The plan involves revising their working hours, but many doctors criticize the lack of clarity and prior consultation. They argue that the changes threaten to cut into their overtime pay, which many rely on to make ends meet.
The proposed schedule includes an 8-hour “long shift” from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. for the Day/Evening Shift, and a night shift from 7 p.m. to 8 a.m. at the Emergency and Acute Care Units, as well as specialized units like Medical and Surgical Departments. Critics say these hours are impractical and could severely impact doctors’ social lives.
A new “Short Shift,” from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and until noon on Saturdays, is also being introduced for staff at community and health centers. Many worry this will create divisions among staff and breed dissatisfaction.
Current schedules, which include 24-hour on-call rotations followed by days off, are already under scrutiny. The proposed shifts—daytime from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and nighttime from 7 p.m. to 8 a.m.—are seen as disruptive and potentially detrimental to doctors’ work-life balance. Union representatives express concern that the new plan may eliminate “time off” and further demotivate practitioners, risking a future shortage of healthcare providers.
Many advocate for dialogue between the ministry and medical unions. Critics argue that decisions are being made without proper consultation, often influenced by advisors rather than frontline professionals, threatening the effectiveness of the healthcare system.