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 and clinics to recruit the doctors, nurses, and auxiliary staff necessary for the proper functioning of medical services.
Currently, the only way for healthcare units to open positions for competition is through the approval of a government memorandum. This procedure is considered by industry representatives to be difficult and time-consuming, which hinders the process of filling staffing quotas in hospitals across the country.
The consequences of this situation are felt directly by patients, as well as by the existing medical staff, who are forced to take on an increasing workload. The lack of personnel affects the quality of services provided and the waiting time for consultations or surgical interventions in public facilities.
Authorities continue to analyze the situation, but so far, no definitive solution has been identified to unfreeze positions at the national level. It remains to be seen how this issue will evolve in the coming period and whether measures will be adopted to support hospitals in the recruitment process.