KUALA LUMPUR – The newly established Healthcare Work Culture Improvement Task Force (HWCITF) has convened for the first time to discuss critical issues surrounding its workforce, following a recent bullying incident in Penang.
The task force, which convened virtually yesterday, had also received a briefing on the management of trainee doctors by the Health Ministry’s medical development division and the Penang Health Department on the aforementioned bullying case that had led to the death of a junior doctor.
Among other matters discussed by the task force was its action plan involving the input of other professional bodies, agencies, and non-governmental bodies to ensure better working culture among its staff.
In the statement today, HWCITF also acknowledged public concern on its membership and stressed that it will provide detailed reports and recommendations that are inclusive and equitable.
On May 13, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin announced the formation of HWCITF, which is tasked to look into bettering the working culture among Health Ministry staff following the bullying incident in Penang.
The task force is led by former science, technology, and innovation ministry secretary-general Datuk Siti Hamisah Tapsir and also includes seven other professionals and experts.
The recent death of the Penang Hospital houseman is believed to be the second involving a junior doctor in the state.
In December 2020, The Vibes reported that a doctor who had resigned from the same hospital had died suddenly. – The Vibes, May 17, 2022
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