And it is no coincidence that the medical profession is considered a "special profession" in the professions. Because doctors have to both undertake the noble mission of "saving people" and face huge work pressure, from continuous work schedules to the risk of disease infection, even being subject to violence.
Because of that characteristic, the medical profession requires a rigorous and prolonged training process, constantly updating knowledge and always maintaining the professional ethics of "Doctor is like a model".
In fact, in recent years, the Ministry of Health has made continuous efforts to improve income, improve the lives of the medical team, and gradually eliminate the disadvantageous line between the public and private sectors.
Policies such as postgraduate training support, preferential allowances for unattractive sectors, remote areas, etc. partly help reduce difficulties and motivate health workers.
However, as General Secretary To Lam's worrying comment at the working session with the Ministry of Health on the occasion of Vietnamese Doctors' Day (February 27,55 - February 27, 2025) on February 24 said, up to now, we have only had special selection and training, but have not had special use and treatment.
To improve treatment policies and train high-quality medical human resources, as directed by General Secretary To Lam, the health sector needs to synchronize solutions. In particular, high-quality selection and training must be associated with a flexible and professional mechanism to avoid wasting resources.
The treatment level for the medical team - especially preventive medicine, and primary care - needs to continue to be adjusted to increase, at least enough for them to make a living by profession. This will limit the situation of quitting work and working overtime, which significantly affects the quality of public health services.
It is necessary to develop a roadmap for reforming salary and allowance policies in accordance with the risks and pressures of work, as well as the characteristics of each specialty. There needs to be a strong enough reward and encouragement mechanism for good doctors to stay with lower-level and remote hospitals.
A strong healthcare system starts with people who are good at their profession, have good skills and feel secure in contributing in a respectful and worthy working environment.
