The longest time I have stayed at one workplace is 6 years. That was a district hospital setting. I was beginning to feel the itch 5 years in, instead of the infamous 7-year itch. Simply because I was beginning to see more of my great colleagues leaving one by one. Most left for private practice. If I had not given birth to my daughter, I think I would still be there to continue serving the district.

However, I, too, left due to family commitment. My family was growing, and my husband’s career was already finding its footing in Public Health. Since anaesthesia was no longer an option for me, we felt that serving in a clinic setting would be more practical. Hence, I took the plunge and began my journey in Klinik Kesihatan (KK).

I served 3 years in my first KK. In my second and current KK, it is approaching 6 years, and I am already feeling the itch. Every year, we have medical officers coming and leaving. Sadly, those who left surpass those who came. Some chased dreams. Some had to fulfil work obligations. With each person, they bring in skills and experience from their life. And left with hopefully good memories of our workplace. It is hard to ignore this itch, as I felt that it has started to affect my ‘jiwa’ for this line of duty. A dedicated healthcare worker needs to be passionate and knowledgeable in their work. I don’t even have the urge to keep up with the latest guidelines and clinical management of diseases.

Recently, we had a farewell and Eid celebration at the clinic. Two pensioners and a few transfers. I have to say that it is too early in the year to have so many staff reshuffled and moving away. The workplace dynamics have certainly shifted, and the tension is palpable. Office politics are inevitable as work must go on. I mean, I make the roster for the medical officers. Honestly, I feel sorry for my friends because on most days, we are always short on people. Sometimes I wish that instead of the minimum 3 or 4 people we have in each zone, we could have at least 5 or 6 people to support the team. This is not always feasible as we have courses, special clinics and people on leave.

This 6-year itch has become increasingly noticeable and annoying. Will I make it to 8 or will I succumb to the 7 year itch?