Herzegovina‑Neretva Canton doctors reject 10% salary raise and keep resignations

The government of the Herzegovina‑Neretva Canton (HBŽ) offered doctors a 10 % increase in base salary – roughly 200 KM per doctor – as a transitional measure while negotiations on a new collective agreement continue. The doctors’ union, led by Ivica Jozić, called the proposal “incorrect and unserious,” noting that no meeting with government officials had taken place and that the offer was communicated only through hospital directors.

Doctors who have submitted resignations argue that the modest raise does not address the systemic problems that led many to quit. Some have been offered temporary contracts by other entities paying up to 1,000 KM for a shift, highlighting the disparity with the canton’s standard 243 KM per shift. The union maintains its stance, saying the offer cannot persuade doctors to withdraw their resignations and that the process was mishandled.

The canton government stresses that the raise is intended to ensure continuity of health services and protect patient interests ahead of upcoming elections. However, the dispute raises concerns about the availability of pediatricians, internists and surgeons for citizens of Canton 10, potentially affecting the quality of care.