Honorary doctors

Honorary doctors

From Kompas

The fact that the Health Department sends honorary doctors to the regions is laudable. But there is a problem with its implementation. In Tangerang, West Java, for instance, several doctors are working at a single village clinic. I don't mind this surplus of doctors as long as the community enjoys satisfactory services. Unfortunately, this glut of doctors is no guarantee that people get the medical care they need.

The doctors take turns to staff the clinic. Or one doctor may not come to the clinic at all.

Of course, there is nothing wrong with the concept. But how to work out the practicalities needs some thought. Doctors should be placed wisely, if state funds are not to be wasted.

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