🇪🇬Egypt Today·1 hour ago
Egypt addresses medical brain drain and healthcare workforce shortages
Egyptian Minister of Health and Population Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar stated that Egypt is experiencing a medical brain drain, but the government is implementing financial incentives to address shortages in healthcare personnel. He noted that approximately 13,000 doctors graduate annually, a number that could increase to 22,000 with the expansion of private universities. Data from the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics CAPMAS for 2024 showed a 1.7 percent decline in doctors in government hospitals compared to 2023, while the number of dentists, private hospital doctors and dentists, and nursing staff increased. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly previously commented that the migration of medical professionals is not necessarily a loss, as they contribute to the economy through remittances, and emphasized ensuring sufficient medical staff for local needs. The Egyptian Medical Syndicate attributes the exodus to low salaries, poor working conditions, assaults on healthcare workers, inadequate insurance, and lack of recognition. For instance, a medical intern in Egypt earns up to LE 2,800 monthly, while a resident physician earns around LE 7,000. In contrast, a resident physician in Saudi Arabia can earn up to 8,050 Saudi riyals approximately LE 66,000 with a Bachelor's degree, or up to 13,120 Saudi riyals approximately LE 107,000 with a diploma. A deputy physician specialist with a master's degree can earn up to 16,835 Saudi riyals approximately LE 137,000, and wit