Podgorica Health Center: The problem is decades old, it cannot be solved overnight

The decades-long problem has been accompanied by systemic neglect of the pediatric sector, as well as supporting segments, which cannot be solved overnight, the Capital City Health Center announced.

This health institution responded to the pediatrician's letter.

We transmit the response in full:

"Regarding the article in yesterday's "Vijesti", we wanted to provide a well-intentioned clarification on the statement of the pediatrician from the Capital City Health Center.

Namely, the answer to the core of the existing problem is found in the text of the esteemed colleagues. It is a decades-old problem that has been accompanied by the systemic neglect of the pediatric sector, as well as the accompanying segments, which cannot be solved overnight. In the past two years, while respecting the views of our colleagues, we have spent a lot of time searching for a solution to this evident problem. We have had a significant number of meetings in which we have found understanding with the Ministry of Health, which carefully and respectfully analyzed the conveyed views of pediatricians and us as the management of the health center. Some of these meetings were attended by some of the pediatricians of our institution. This problem was also presented to the Government itself. A number of conclusions were reached and a systematic solution was entered into to solve the shortage of pediatricians, which burdens not only us, but also the Clinical Center of Montenegro, namely the Institute for Diseases of Children. Something had to start. We draw attention to the fact that care was really taken about what the pediatricians themselves think and what their suggestions are. We were able to explain that this field of medicine (although we call every branch sensitive) also has an additional burden for pediatricians given all the emotions parents encounter when it comes to their child's health, which is understandable.

We ensure that all additional activities and all additional work that pediatricians provide is adequately paid, within the legal framework, and that they are trained, i.e. undergo training conducted both in the institution and outside it.

Regarding the synchronization of the resolution of the aforementioned problem at the Institute for Children's Diseases and the Capital City Health Center, the best temporary solution was sought. We worked a lot and did not rush anything. When the decision was made, which we must adhere to, we implemented all legal procedures regarding shift engagement. Without any pressure and without jeopardizing anyone's rights - human and professional. Some pediatricians showed understanding for the newly created circumstances, and some believed that other solutions should be sought. It should also be mentioned that a number of pediatricians, who have a license to work in private practice, were extremely against this solution, because it can lead to fatigue and exhaustion at work, but we cannot put the general interest below the interests of individuals.

We repeat, for all their work, which is really difficult and in specific conditions, pediatricians are paid and respected to the maximum. We also agree with the indication from yesterday's letter that we should not make "shortcut" solutions. We did not work like that, but systematically and for a long time. Therefore, perhaps, we should not look for the culprit "shortcut". Our doors are open to every pediatrician, as well as to all employees of the institution. And it will remain so. This is a common challenge that we are determined to solve.