Patients on edge as doctors prepare for hospital walkout

On Monday, crowds of people bustled through Severance Hospital in Seodaemun-gu, western Seoul, as they sought medical care and support. Meanwhile, the city's major medical centers were thrown into chaos as junior doctors at the renowned "Big Five" hospitals submitted their resignation letters en masse. This protest action was in response to the government's proposed increase in medical school enrollment quotas, a move that stirred discontent among medical professionals.

Among the worried faces in the hospital's main lobby was a woman in her 60s, her concern palpable as she clung to hospital staff. She anxiously inquired about meeting her husband's physician on time. Her husband, a heart disease patient, sat beside her in a wheelchair, adding to her anxiety.

In a trembling voice, she confided her fear to a reporter from The Korea Herald. She questioned who would care for patients like her husband in urgent situations if the junior doctors proceeded with their planned walkout.

Despite reassurances that her husband's appointment remained intact, the possibility of delayed surgery loomed over them. The woman expressed deep concern about her husband's deteriorating health and the uncertainty surrounding his treatment timeline.

Adding to the tension, Severance Hospital issued an internal announcement on Friday, alerting staff members to an anticipated reduction in operating room capacity due to the impending absence of junior doctors. This measure would significantly impact the Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, potentially halving its usual patient load.

As patients like the woman in her 60s grapple with uncertainties, the looming doctor shortage underscores the pressing need for solutions to ensure continuity of care within the healthcare system