Delays in being promoted are among the factors for the resignation of many medical specialists in the government sector over the past six years.

Deputy Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Hilmi Yahaya said, between January and September this year, 128 specialist doctors have resigned while 124 left the service last year.

He said those on Grade U53 and U54, who had to wait for up to 10 years for a promotion, made up the bulk of resignations.

"That is why we plan to introduce Grade 56 which is being worked out by the Public Service Department," he said when replying to a question from Datuk Seri Ikmal Hisham Abdul Aziz (BN-Tanah Merah) in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Ikmal Hisham wanted to know the seriousness of the shortage of medical specialists in Malaysia.

Dr Hilmi said up to September this year, there are more than 4,000 specialists in various fields under the Health Ministry.

At the same time, Ikmal Hisham also wanted to know if Malaysia would be able to achieve the ratio of 1:400 (doctor to patient) by 2020.

Dr Hilmi said the ratio in 2015 was one doctor to every 650 patients.

"In general, without taking into account the types of illnesses, Malaysia need one doctor to every 520 patients.

"Therefore, the government must remain committed to ensure we increase the number of doctors in the country," he said.

He added that based on evaluation and early research, the target ration of 1:400 seemed more achievable by 2030.