HELPDOC coming to the aid of stressed out doctors

KUALA LUMPUR: Doctors who are stressed now have an avenue to air their grievances with the launch of the helpline, HELPDOC.
HELPDOC is a special service by Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) where doctors who are stressed can call the helpline to talk about what is bothering them.
"Doctors these days go through a lot of stressors. These have been highlighted by the media and sometimes it is a half told story. This taskforce is to ensure there is help for doctors 24/7," Dr Ravindran Naidu, MMA's president said in his speech during the launch.
Doctors from all categories, members and non-members, are allowed to access this service, he said.
"The biggest issue that we hear from doctors is they worry whether they would be targeted or victimised after they complain. I would like to assure and emphasise that in HELPDOC their identities would remain anonymous, we will not reveal who they are," Prof Dr K Selvam, chairman of MMA Taskforce said.
He will be heading the taskforce said this would be an outlet for housemen especially, as they need to transition from a medical student to a doctor.
"Most of the time, all they need is a listening ear. They want someone to listen to their problems," he said.
Complaints that comes through the helpline will then be referred to the necessary department or person to be addressed.
"If there are issues like bullying, such issues will be referred to the necessary department or person."
Datuk Dr Azman Abu Bakar, director of the Medical Development Division from the Health Ministry said that the ministry does take issues of bullying amongst doctors seriously.
"The issue of bullying is very subjective. We need to investigate, speak to the other colleagues, superiors and get to the bottom of the problem. It takes two to tango. But if after investigating, if it is ascertained there is a bullying problem then they will be called up to give an explanation. First level we will issue a warning letter," Dr Azman said.
The common complaint amongst housemen includes long working hours and irregular off days.
The current guideline by Health Ministry is that housemen should only work 65-75 hours per week and be given at least one day off.
"Hospitals also have a resting room for doctors who are too tired to rest after their duties in each hospital," Dr Azman said.
Doctors who need help can call HELPDOC at 03 40111140. The line is operational from 9-5 daily for the first week, and 24 hours after that.