Galen Centre Slams Proposed Shift System for Public Healthcare Workers
The Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy has expressed its strong opposition to a proposed shift system for public healthcare workers, which aims to limit their working hours to 18 consecutive hours. The organization’s CEO, Azrul Khalib, has stated that regardless of whether there is compensation, no one should be working 18-hour shifts.
"It’s inhumane, unsafe for the worker, and very likely will lead to patient harm. It is also exploitative," Azrul said. He compared the proposed system to the working conditions of garment sweatshop workers in Bangladesh, who clock in 14 to 16 hours a day. "Are we a sweatshop?" he asked.
The proposed system, known as Waktu Bekerja Berlainan or WBB, limits doctors and dentists in the public health service to 18 consecutive work hours, which is lower than the current 24 to 33 hours straight from on-call duties.
Concerns Raised by Malaysian Medical Association and Umno Youth
The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has also expressed concerns over the proposal, warning that it might strain the already overburdened public healthcare system. MMA president Dr. Kalwinder Singh Khaira stated that the income of public medical officers and specialists would be affected under this system, as on-call allowances would only apply to those on call during weekends and public holidays.
Umno Youth chief Dr. Akmal Saleh also raised concerns over the WBB, warning that its implementation may chase away the few doctors remaining in public service. He pointed out that even security guards who work 12 hours have eight of these hours considered their base hours, with the remaining hours considered overtime.
Health Minister’s Stance
Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad has not been briefed on, or given his approval to the proposed shift system. He stated that it remains only a "recommendation" that is still being fine-tuned.
Conclusion
The proposed WBB system has been met with widespread criticism from healthcare professionals and experts, who argue that it is inhumane, unsafe, and exploitative. The Galen Centre’s CEO, Azrul Khalib, has emphasized that no one should be working 18-hour shifts, regardless of compensation. It is essential to reevaluate the proposed system and prioritize the well-being and safety of healthcare workers and patients.
FAQs
- What is Waktu Bekerja Berlainan (WBB)?
WBB is a proposed shift system for public healthcare workers, limiting their working hours to 18 consecutive hours. - What are the concerns raised by the Galen Centre and the Malaysian Medical Association?
The Galen Centre and the Malaysian Medical Association are concerned that the WBB system is inhumane, unsafe, and exploitative, and may strain the already overburdened public healthcare system. - Has the Health Minister given his approval to the proposed shift system?
No, Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad has not been briefed on, or given his approval to the proposed shift system. It remains only a "recommendation" that is still being fine-tuned.