Fast track programme to be implemented for outstanding housemen

TEMERLOH, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- Oustanding housemen will have the opportunity to complete their housemanship training in a much shorter time through a fast track programme which is expected to be implemented next year, said Health Minister Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. 

He said the programme aimed at reducing the waiting period for housemen to undergo  housemanship training had been given the green light by the Cabinet.

He said the fast track programme would involve about 10 per cent of the estimated 5,000 housemen each year and would see them completing the housemanship training within 18 months compared to two years currently.

"The move is expected to shorten the waiting period which can stretch to over one year for each houseman to gain a place, as not all housemen can complete their training within the stipulated period, thus causing a backlog," he said.

He was speaking to reporters at the Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) 3rd Anniversary Celebrations at the Dewan Tun Razak here today.

 Dr Dzulkefly said to date only 45 hospitals in the country were good training grounds as the hospitals were equipped with proper facilities and manned by specialist doctors.

The number is small compared to the number of medical graduates being churned out by 31 medical colleges in the country as well as from medical schools abroad.

--BERNAMA