The private GP system is a time-proven, efficient, and cost-effective system, and should be used to ease outpatient congestion at all public facilities.
The national budget for health care should have a target of at least 5 per cent of GDP for the delivery system, and at least another 2 per cent of GDP for research.
Section 43 of the IRA 1967 requires workers in essential services (which includes public health) to give their employer notice of the intended strike within 42 days before the event; strikes can also be held after 21 days of giving such notice.
While the government takes extra steps to make medical screening more rigorous, it should also ensure that there is no prejudice and discrimination towards migrant workers.
Perhaps the health minister and health DG can follow a medical officer for the entire duration of one call to experience the true extent of the issues.