The Necessity of Shortening Service Periods for Military Doctors and Public Health Doctors

The Korean Medical Association (KMA) has recently officially stated the need to shorten the service periods for military doctors and public health doctors. With President Lee Jae-myung directly addressing this issue and ordering improvements, the likelihood of actual system reforms seems high. This is considered not just a request, but an essential measure for the sustainability of the healthcare system.

Current Situation and Differences in Service Periods

According to the KMA, while the service period for active-duty soldiers has been shortened to 18 months, the actual service period for military doctors and public health doctors, including training, amounts to 38 months. This disparity is one of the reasons why medical students opt to enlist as active-duty soldiers rather than as medical officers. Consequently, the number of public health doctors has plummeted from the 800s to just 92, leaving approximately 730 public health centers without assigned doctors.

The President's Remarks and the KMA's Response

President Lee recently pointed out the problems with the service of military doctors and public health doctors at a 'Regional, Essential, and Public Healthcare Meeting' held at the Blue House. He assessed the current situation as dire compared to the past and emphasized the need for systematic review and improvement of these issues. The KMA welcomed these remarks, warning that the military healthcare system and regional public healthcare system would collapse if military doctors and public health doctors disappear.

Bill Introduction and the Effects of Shortening Service Periods

In fact, related bills have been introduced in the National Assembly. The amendment bills to the Military Service Act and the Military Personnel Act, spearheaded by Representative Kim Sun-kyo of the People Power Party, propose to shorten the service period to 2 years for public health doctors and military doctors. The KMA plans to submit a supportive opinion on these bills. According to a 2024 survey by the Institute for Healthcare Policy, if the service period is shortened, the intention to apply for public health doctor and military doctor positions is expected to increase to 94.7% and 92.2%, respectively.

Various Opinions and Future Plans

Beyond shortening the service period, the KMA has also expressed its stance on several other issues. Regarding the reform of health insurance fees, there are both positive and negative aspects. For the expansion of the medical malpractice safety net, the general response was positive. However, concerns were raised about the Korean-style primary care physician system and the transition to medical AI, pointing out the significant potential to restrict patients' choice of medical institutions.

These points go beyond simply shortening the service periods for military doctors and public health doctors, calling for a re-examination and improvement of the nation's overall healthcare system. As we anticipate future changes, continued interest and support will be necessary.