There is already a shortage of doctors in Luxembourg, and with many practitioners expected to retire in the coming years, the problem is about to get worse.
In an attempt to promote medical jobs in the Grand Duchy, officials from the health sector thus organised an information day on Saturday. Around 60 medical students joined to learn more about digital health, the focal point of the event. According to Dr Jean-François Michel, the sector is currently undergoing a number of infrastructural changes that practitioners need to be aware of.
Around 1,000 Luxembourgers are currently studying medicine abroad. So far, only bachelor degrees can be completed in the Grand Duchy, students still need to go abroad to complete a specialisation. Anne Eyschen, president of the Association of Luxembourgish Medical Students, emphasised that it would be beneficial to have a full programme here in Luxembourg.
She also drew attention to the fact that the final study year, which is a practical one, is unpaid in Luxembourg, the only country to do so.
Those already doing a specialisation also look for better work conditions, explained Lisa Zangarini from the respective association. She noted that regulated work hours and universal contracts would be a step forward. Although overtime and on-call duty are part of the job, they should be properly paid.
