Young docs need family time as well

Given Singapore's ageing population, it makes sense to train more generalist doctors than what Associate Professor Benjamin Ong referred to as "super-specialists" (Young docs urged to veer away from specialising; Sept 21).

What I do not agree with is Prof Ong saying not to "choose a speciality primarily because it gives us a good work-life balance".

What is wrong with wanting a job with good work-life balance?

Many young doctors are also young parents, and they, too, desire to spend time with their families and young children.

It is time for the Ministry of Health (MOH) to review the training of young doctors to ensure that they have adequate rest and time for their families.

The MOH should also review its remuneration for doctors in different disciplines to attract people into the desired fields.

Young doctors have already spent a long time studying and training to be doctors.

They will dedicate even more time and energy on further training.

Asking doctors to be altruistic and, at the same time, willing to sacrifice their family time is unfair and unreasonable.

Chong Sze Kah (Madam)

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on September 23, 2017, with the headline Young docs need family time as well. Subscribe