DOCTORS ON DUTY WIN THEIR CASE

The first valid verdict has been brought in a series of lawsuits started by doctors for their duty fees. The verdict of the Court of Jász-Nagykun-Szolnok Counties recognizes the right of doctors for full fees when on duty, in harmony with the standpoint of the European Court.

The lawsuit was started by 14 doctors of Hetényi Géza Hospital in Szolnok. The Hungarian Medical Chamber held an international press conference and its chairman, István Éger called the ruling highly significant. The difference of fees unpaid between May 2004 and June 2005 makes up some HUF 40 billion for nearly 19 000 doctors on duty. Minister of Health Jenő Rácz said the main problem was not the reimbursement of the fees but the fact that doctors could work less on duty in future as the law in Hungary permits 60 working hours a week for doctors.

Translated by Péter Szentmihályi Szabó