PETALING JAYA: Nearly 4,000 healthcare professionals who were offered interim job contracts in government hospitals three months ago have reason to celebrate after being granted permanent positions by the Public Services Commission on Oct 21.

The Health Ministry announced that the group includes 3,200 medical officers, 350 dentists and 400 pharmacists.

Job placements for these candidates will be managed by state health departments, with the process set to commence from Dec 23.

"The permanent placement for the candidates will take effect the day they report for duty, which is Dec 30, or another date determined by the head of department if a postponement request is made," the ministry said in a statement.

For those seeking to appeal the location of their new postings, the Health Ministry has provided a window for submission through an online Google Form in the e-Placement system.

Medical officers can submit their appeals from Nov 5 to 11, while dentists and pharmacists will have until Nov 15.

"Only appeals submitted via the Google Form will be considered by the placement appeals committee. Candidates will be notified of the outcome of their appeals through the Health Ministry’s career review portal on Dec 2," the ministry said.

The Health Ministry listed a few grounds for appeal that could be considered, such as candidates enrolled in approved specialisation courses or those whose children have serious health conditions, as long as they can provide supporting medical documentation.

Additionally, the ministry will consider consensual exchanges between candidates for placement.

In a message to the successful candidates, the Health Ministry extended congratulations and expressed hope that they would demonstrate commitment to their duties and serve with excellence in the interest of public health and well-being.

The issue of permanent placements for contract healthcare workers has been a longstanding concern.

In April last year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government aims to absorb around 12,800 contract doctors into permanent positions over the next three years.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/11/09/almost-4000-healthcare-professional-to-secure-permanent-positions