Turkish Medical Association asks for the removal of staff limits in private clinics

The Turkish Medical Association applied to the Ministry of Health against the practice of some provincial health directorates allowing only a single non-physician staff member in private clinics, demanding the removal of the restriction and emphasizing that there is no numerical limit in the relevant regulation.

Application Made to the Ministry of Health

The Turkish Medical Association made an official application to the Ministry of Health regarding the practice of some provincial health directorates allowing only a single non-physician staff member in private clinics.

In the letter prepared based on information received from medical chambers, it was requested that this restriction, regardless of whether it is full-time or part-time, be lifted.

No Numerical Limit in the Regulation

Pointing out that there is no restriction regarding the number of employees in the relevant regulation, the application stated that the current practice lacks legal basis.

It was emphasized that applying a numerical limit not included in the regulation through interpretation is incompatible with the principle of legality in regulatory acts.

Service Needs Vary

It was stated that the personnel needs of private clinics vary according to the physician's field of expertise, patient density, and the nature of the service provided.

It was noted that the single-staff limit would make it difficult to meet the actual service needs of private clinics and could negatively affect the continuity of service.

Employment Loss Warning and Call

It was conveyed that due to the practice, physicians currently employing more than one staff member may be forced to lay off their employees, leading to a loss in employment.

A call was made to the Ministry of Health requesting that a new letter be sent to provincial health directorates and necessary steps be taken to prevent ongoing grievances.