South Korea health alert raised to ‘severe’ over doctors walkout

In response to a mass walkout by almost two-thirds of South Korea’s young doctors, the government plans to maximize the use of public hospitals to address the strain on the medical system. The prime minister announced the elevation of the public health alert to the highest level. Public hospitals will extend operating hours, including weekends and holidays, to mitigate the impact of the ongoing protests. Over 8,400 doctors, approximately 64 percent of resident and intern doctors in South Korea, have joined the walkout, leading to concerns about disruptions in healthcare services. The government’s move aims to ensure continued medical care amid the dispute, with doctors emphasizing issues of pay and working conditions rather than the number of physicians.

Source – CGTN