Warning Bells Ring for Child Health: No Pediatricians May Be Found in 5 Years

Prof. Dr. Özgür Kasapçopur, President of the Turkish Pediatric Society, warns that the number of doctors in critical branches related to child health is rapidly decreasing. With only 5 doctors applying for the pediatric intensive care branch and only 9% of the 250 doctor positions in the neonatology branch being filled, it may be impossible to find a doctor for children in just 5 years. Difficult working conditions, malpractice lawsuits, and long education periods are among the reasons why doctors are not choosing these fields. This year, only 5 doctors applied for the pediatric intensive care branch, while only 9% of the 250 doctor positions in the neonatology branch were filled. The President of the Turkish Pediatric Society emphasizes the gravity of the situation, warning that if necessary steps are not taken, there will be a severe shortage of doctors in these fields in 5 years. If we cannot make these life-saving branches attractive, the biggest problem for our children in the future will be finding a doctor.