Hungarian doctors have had enough: Campaign and demonstration for drastic changes
Hungarian doctors are urging the government to act on the country’s underfunded healthcare system. The Hungarian Chamber of Doctors (MOK) is launching a campaign for greater investment and a shift in public attitudes. On 8 March, doctors will stage a demonstration in Budapest to demand urgent change and better support for the healthcare sector.
Hungarian doctors raise concerns
As Pénzcentrum writes, Hungarian doctors are raising concerns over the country’s struggling healthcare system through a social campaign. At a press conference, Dr Péter Álmos highlighted the severe underfunding of the sector, with a shortfall of HUF 10 billion (EUR 24.6 million) already impacting public health. The president of the Hungarian Chamber of Doctors (MOK) warned that the pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic have left medical staff exhausted, increasing tension between doctors and patients. He pointed to alarming statistics, including Hungary’s highest cancer mortality rate in the EU and declining health screenings. Dr Álmos stressed that beyond financial shortcomings, generational habits and lifestyle choices also play a role in the nation’s health crisis.
National campaign
Hungarian doctors are intensifying efforts to address the chronic underfunding of the healthcare system, with the Hungarian Chamber of Doctors (MOK) launching a campaign to push for increased government support. MOK President Dr Péter Álmos criticised the lack of response to professional recommendations, citing the restructuring of the on-call system as a factor accelerating the departure of GPs.
Upcoming demonstration
The campaign seeks immediate targeted funding and a long-term commitment to increasing healthcare expenditure as a percentage of GDP. Beyond financial support, experts will also be involved in shaping reforms. To raise awareness, MOK and the Hungarian Doctors’ Trade Union will stage a public demonstration in Budapest on 8 March, highlighting the urgent need for political and public attention on healthcare.
Sorting out underfunding
Hungarian doctors are calling for a long-overdue investment in the country’s healthcare system, emphasising that the sector’s chronic underfunding spans decades and is not solely the responsibility of the current government. Previous campaigns have failed to bring lasting improvements, but the Hungarian Chamber of Doctors (MOK) urges decision-makers to take action now to begin addressing this debt.
Beyond financial resources, the campaign aims to shift public and political attitudes, reinforcing that healthcare is a vital investment. MOK President Dr Péter Álmos highlighted how strained medical staff often bear the blame for systemic shortcomings, leading to frustration and declining professional esteem. The campaign seeks to improve conditions for healthcare workers while ensuring that both politicians and society recognise the true value of a well-funded health system.
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