Medical Association: We Are Not Against Full-Time Work, But Salaries and Rights Must Be Guaranteed

In a written statement, the KTTB Board of Directors said it stands with Tıp-İş and underlined that it cannot remain silent in the face of “injustice, populism and practices lacking merit” in the health sector.

“We defend not only our own rights, but also the rights of the public,” the Association said, adding:

“Especially during the pandemic, the public health system went through a serious test under the leadership of physicians and passed it with honour. This success is not only ours as doctors, but also a reflection of the trust placed in us by the public.

The recently raised issue of ‘full-time work’ is a move aimed at concealing the real problems and saving the day. We already work full-time for the health of the public. However, seeking solutions solely through working hours, without securing our rights and working conditions, is unacceptable.”

At this point, the KTTB stated that it fully supports the Cyprus Turkish Doctors’ Union, noting that its struggle is not only for doctors but for the public’s right to receive qualified, safe and equal healthcare services.

“Our demands are not for personal gain; they are a guarantee of the public’s access to quality healthcare,” the statement said.

The Association argued that responsibility should not be shifted onto healthcare workers by those who have failed to complete the Kyrenia and Morphou hospitals, increase operating theatre and bed capacity, or properly plan the system.

“While we protect our labour rights, we also protect public health,” the KTTB said, continuing:

“We remain determined in our stance against practices that lack merit and against the attempt to legitimise specialist training without examinations. Without justice, science and merit in healthcare, neither public health can be safeguarded nor the dignity of our profession protected. We do not accept these regulations and will continue our struggle in every field.

Today, by standing together, we are defending not only our rights but also the future of the public. This struggle will continue. We will not accept any step backwards until justice, equality and merit are ensured. We are here for our profession, for our people and for the public healthcare system, and we will pursue this rightful struggle to the end.”