MMA president Dr Azizan Abdul Aziz said a shift system requires adequate manpower, potentially with 200% to 300% more doctors.

“We reiterate that a detailed analysis of data on the distribution of the public healthcare workforce be carried out as a first step, as the issue of healthcare worker maldistribution is still prevalent in public healthcare facilities nationwide,” she said in a statement.

She said there is a need for a six-month pilot project in selected health ministry facilities before the full-scale implementation of a shift system.

Last month, MMA called on the government to adopt a three-shift system daily, along with the introduction of a flexi-allowance, to prevent burnout among doctors and a further brain drain.

It said the government could emulate the European Working Time Directive, where doctors typically work an average of 48 hours a week.

Azizan also said training must be provided when implementing the shift system.

“While we understand that service provision is vital, every effort should be made to ensure that our future specialists are well equipped and competent as they shoulder the heavy burden of patient care and safety,” she said.

She said income from allowances must remain unaffected, and cautioned that the removal of on-call allowances for medical officers could lead to a 20% pay cut that would be “very unfair” in view of the rising costs of living.

Azizan said MMA also proposes a flexible allowance of at least RM1,500 for medical officers to mitigate financial implications.

“Finally, MMA believes it is crucial to initiate early discussions with stakeholders to collaboratively determine the most effective path forward,” she said.