TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's low birth rate has led to a decline in young doctors choosing pediatrics, resulting in aging personnel and overworked professionals. The Taiwan Medical Association noted that while the number of pediatricians increased, the annual growth rate declined, raising concerns about the future of pediatric care.
Chen Shi-hui, a pediatric attending at Shin Kong Memorial Wu Ho-Su Hospital (新光吳火獅紀念醫院), highlighted the increasing workload. "Even our department's oldest director, who is probably in their 60s or 70s, still needs to be on duty," Chen said.
Chen shared her passion for pediatrics, citing her love for seeing kids get better as her motivation. Maryum Malik, a pediatric resident at the same hospital, echoed her sentiment.
However, Malik expressed concerns from others about the declining birth rate. "They told me to think twice because, without children, you will have no patients in the future, and no patients mean no income," she said.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced an additional NT$200 million in subsidies in April, including NT$10,000 per month for pediatric residents and NT$30,000 per month for trainees in pediatric surgery, etc. This initiative aims to retain talent in the field and address the shortage of pediatricians.
The shortage of pediatricians is a rising alarm that the Taiwanese government needs to address. Creating a more balanced workplace for doctors to care for the future generation and providing better health care is crucial.
