Amid escalating tensions within the medical sector, professors from three of the ‘Big 5’ medical schools, including Seoul National University, the Catholic University of Korea, and the University of Ulsan, have submitted resignation letters.
Following recent opposition to medical school expansion and a resolution to protect specialties, professors initiated emergency measures by establishing the National Emergency Committee of Medical School Professors on the 12th of this month. Through this committee, they have gathered the intentions of professors from 19 medical schools who are considering resignation.
While emphasizing the protection of patient safety, medical professors are sending a strong message aimed at resolving the medical-political conflict. However, concerns remain about potential disruptions to medical services due to the resignation of specialists, further heightening tensions between the medical sector and the government.
Additionally, reports of collective action grievances among medical staff are increasing, resulting in issues such as surgical delays and appointment refusals, leading to heightened anxiety among patients.
Amidst these developments, both the government and the medical sector are striving to find urgent solutions to alleviate tensions and ensure the continuity of medical services.
As tensions between the medical sector and the government escalate, it is imperative to explore solutions and closely monitor the situation.