In January, doctors threatened to go on strike in March unless the government changes its plan to introduce telemedicine and other programs. Neighborhood doctors fear telemedicine would lead to a reduction in their income as they suspect patients would favor larger hospitals.
A total of 48,861 doctors across the nation, or 53.87 percent of all doctors currently practicing medicine, took part in a Feb. 21-28 vote and 76.69 percent of them supported a proposal to strike, the Korea Medical Association said.
The walkout is set to begin on March 10.
"I am heavy-hearted as this vote appears to illustrate desperation among our members," KMA chief Roh Hwan-kyu said, adding that the duration and other details of the planned strike will be determined later.
In response to the vote, the health ministry vowed to deal sternly with the planned walkout in accordance with law and principles, and take every possible step to minimize inconveniences to the public.
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Quelle/Source: Yonhap, 02.03.2014
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