Evidence from the recent survey conducted by the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) reveals that almost three-quarters of junior doctors in hospitals claimed to be pressurised into taking on additional hours, often at short notice, thereby increasing the prevailing conditions of unsafe and illicit work practices. Reinforced by the guarantee of confidentiality, virtually all respondents raised the alarm regarding working conditions and inadequate support mechanisms that contribute to the exodus of non-specialist hospital doctors.
The feedback from the bulk of system operators voiced widespread dissatisfaction with work-life balance, accompanied by a lack of recognition, appreciation, and endorsement. The IMO’s non-specialist members have previously cast votes in favour of industrial action as a response to their untenable work environment, and it has been addressed on several occasions with Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, who publicly acknowledged the dire need for improvement.
February saw the release of the non-consultant hospital doctor’s taskforce report that forwarded 44 suggestions across a broad spectrum of issues that included emergency scheduling, patient care, training and direct management. Mr. Donnelly has expressed his commitment to implementing these recommendations as a priority. The IMO’s survey from February recorded that 83 % of junior doctors consistently contravene the Organisation of Working Time Act in their work hours. Also, 77% felt compelled into working additional hours, often without sufficient notice, and 88% reported payment discrepancies related to overtime and similar pay-related errors.
Dr. Rachel McNamara, the chair of the IMO’s committee for junior doctors, spoke ahead of the union’s AGM in Killarney, recounting the survey’s significant but unsurprising findings. She pointed out that the terms agreed upon by the IMO, the Department of Health, and the Health Service in December 2022 to improve conditions for junior doctors have not been completely applied, leading to lack of progress. Dr McNamara claims that the hiring suspension imposed by the HSE has further intensified the challenging working conditions.
The NCHD taskforce report has confirmed the unfortunate truth about a system that fails to recognise or regard NCHDs properly, she stated. The issues and proposed solutions presented in the Taskforce Report reflect long-standing concerns raised by the IMO. It is high time for a swift and effective implementation strategy supported by the necessary resources. Doctors are opting to relocate to places where their work is appreciated, thereby securing a satisfactory work-life balance supported by adequate rest and provision.
The harsh reality of the current working conditions for NCHDs is extremely bleak. What’s needed urgently is a radical change in our attitude and treatment towards NCHDs…otherwise we are set to encounter a continual struggle for another decade with persistent problems like waiting times, hospital overcrowding, and workforce depletion.