In the case of mass resignations of doctors and a reduction in the availability of medical care, the situation will have a serious impact on the Slovak economy. This was pointed out by the Association of Employers’ Unions and Associations (AZZZ) SR, fearing an increase in morbidity and absenteeism of workers as well as increased costs for employers. AZZZ expressed its concerns in an open letter to the Medical Trade Union (LOZ), in which they also request that medical trade unionists consider the long-term consequences of their actions.
AZZZ emphasized in the letter that it respects the right of employees, including health workers, to expressing their claims and concerns and recognizes the necessity to improve conditions in Slovak hospitals. However, it describes the possible consequences of collective dismissals. “In that case, a large number of employees will not receive health care, which can lead to increased morbidity or worsening of already existing health problems. This will cause additional costs not only for PNs, but will also increase the cost of employing substitutes. Such a situation can lead to a slowdown of the entire economy,” pointed out AZZZ general secretary Oto Nevický. “The mass resignations of doctors thus represent a serious threat that has a negative impact not only on employees, but also on the running of companies and the entire national economy and economy.” he added.
On behalf of the employers’ association, he expresses the hope that there is a way to achieve positive changes in the Slovak healthcare system without jeopardizing the smoothness and safety of providing services to patients. “We appeal to LOZ to consider the long-term consequences of its actions and call for calming down the situation and finding solutions that will protect the interests of all – employees, employers and patients,” added Nevický.
More than 3,300 doctors from hospitals across Slovakia resigned as a sign of dissatisfaction with the situation in the healthcare sector. At the same time, doctors are also considering dismissal from overtime work. They are willing to withdraw their resignations if the government starts fulfilling their demands. Health Minister Kamil Šaško (Hlas-SD) said on Wednesday (December 4) that he does not see any relevant reason for the doctors to withdraw their statements. He claims that the Ministry of Health has consistently fulfilled its “homework” and presented concrete steps for the essential requirements of the Health and Safety Executive.
