Pahang Health Department Redeploys Doctors to Address Staffing Shortages in Hospitals
KUANTAN, June 10 — The Pahang State Health Department (JKNP) has attributed staffing shortages at several healthcare facilities across the state to a combination of factors, including doctors pursuing specialist training, inter-state transfers and resignations.
The department said it is actively implementing measures to ensure healthcare services continue operating efficiently despite workforce challenges affecting certain hospitals and medical facilities.
In a statement issued today, JKNP said a total of 850 medical officers were serving at healthcare facilities under its administration as of June 1.
The clarification came following complaints circulating on social media regarding an alleged shortage of doctors at several government hospitals in Pahang.
According to the department, the issue is being closely monitored, with efforts underway to minimise disruptions to patient care and maintain service quality across the state’s healthcare network.
JKNP explained that one of the main contributors to the shortage is the movement of doctors who have been assigned to specialist training programmes, an essential component of workforce development within the healthcare sector.
The department also noted that transfers involving medical officers who secured permanent placements in facilities outside Pahang have reduced staffing levels in some locations.
In addition, resignations among healthcare personnel have further affected workforce availability at selected hospitals and clinics.
To address the situation, JKNP has introduced several immediate interventions aimed at maximising the use of existing human resources.
Among the measures implemented is the redeployment of medical officers from public health clinics and other healthcare facilities through the cluster hospital initiative, which enables staff and resources to be shared among institutions when necessary.
The department has also reorganised doctor placements based on service requirements and workload demands to ensure healthcare facilities with higher patient volumes receive adequate support.
JKNP said it remains committed to strengthening healthcare delivery throughout the state through continuous monitoring and close coordination with the Ministry of Health.
The department added that efforts to address staffing requirements are being carried out progressively to ensure healthcare facilities remain capable of meeting public demand.
At the same time, JKNP stressed that the welfare of healthcare personnel remains a priority, recognising the critical role medical professionals play in maintaining quality healthcare services.
The department reiterated its commitment to ensuring that healthcare services provided to the public remain safe, effective, efficient and accessible despite current workforce challenges.
According to JKNP, ongoing initiatives are aimed at sustaining service standards while ensuring patients continue to receive the care they need across all healthcare facilities in Pahang.
