Ministry of Health Works to Address Healthcare Worker Shortage

The increase in cases of non-communicable diseases in Malaysia has led to overcrowding in health facilities, according to Health Minister Dr. Zaliha Mustafa. The Ministry of Health (MOH) has sought to expedite the appointment process of medical graduates by omitting the interview process conducted by the Public Services Commission, increasing graduate training openings at the MOH, and repointing retired medical officers on a contractual basis. Additionally with the 6.6 percent growth in medical officers in 2022 compared to 2021, the MOH is optimistic in reaching its target ratio of one doctor per 400 people by 2025. The government expects 12,800 contract doctors to receive permanent positions over the next three years, with 4,300 contract doctors expected to be awarded permanent positions this year. At the end of 2022, only 17 percent of Malaysia’s contract medical officers were absorbed into permanent service according to Minister Dr. Zaliha Mustafa. On March 31, the Cabinet agreed to establish a high-level commission to resolve complaints brought forth by contract doctors regarding salary and benefits. The MOH is also working to reduce healthcare workers’ workload through various measures, including digitization, mental support services, and ensuring work schedules enable sufficient rest. Over the past years, the MOH has reported improvements in healthcare staffing in both the public and private sector, with a 1:420 medical officer to patient ratio in 2021 compared to a 1:554 ratio in 2017. As demand for medical services increases, the MOH continues to work towards improving the number of medical officers through new initiatives and incentives.