Staffing crisis in the Romanian medical system: positions remain frozen
The medical system in Romania is facing major difficulties due to the freezing of hiring in public institutions. This measure, implemented since 2023, has significantly limited the ability of hospitals to recruit new staff, affecting their capacity to provide optimal medical services to patients.
Currently, the only way for healthcare units to open positions for competition is by obtaining a memorandum approved by the Government. However, the procedure is complex and time-consuming, making the process of unfreezing jobs extremely difficult for hospital managers who urgently need doctors and nurses.
This situation has created a staff shortage in many departments across the country, placing additional pressure on current employees, who must take on the duties of missing colleagues. As patient needs grow, the lack of staff is becoming a critical issue for the efficient functioning of the public health system.
Authorities continue to analyze the situation, but as of now, hiring restrictions remain in effect. It remains to be seen whether solutions will be identified in the coming period to simplify procedures and allow hospitals to complete the teams necessary for patient care.