The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has given the Federal Government a two-week ultimatum to address outstanding welfare and professional issues affecting its members. This ultimatum was issued at the association's 46th annual general meeting in Calabar, Cross River State. The doctors expressed concern over the slow implementation of agreements reached with the Federal Government. They demanded urgent action on several key issues.
NARD's demands include the immediate implementation of agreements reached with the Federal Government, particularly those relating to improved conditions of service and professional development. The association also called for a review of existing remuneration and professional salary structures for doctors. They noted that the current framework no longer adequately reflected prevailing economic realities. This review is necessary to ensure that doctors' salaries align with current economic conditions.
The resident doctors also raised concerns over excessive workload and manpower shortages in hospitals. They demanded appropriate compensation for working beyond their normal responsibilities. The association called for standardised templates for compensating doctors for excess workload, as well as reliable data to justify payments to those performing additional duties. This move aims to address the issue of overwork and underpayment among resident doctors.
Another major concern for NARD is the safety of medical personnel in hospitals. The association expressed worry over attacks on health workers and urged the government to fully implement existing policies and anti-assault measures. These measures are designed to protect medical personnel from violence and ensure a safe working environment. The government is expected to take concrete steps to address this issue.
The migration of doctors and other health professionals from Nigeria is also a major concern for NARD. The association urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to urgently address the factors driving this exodus. They also called on state governments to prioritise the welfare of doctors and other health workers in their institutions. This includes ensuring the implementation of relevant welfare policies to retain medical professionals.
NARD National President, Ogar Emmanuel Idoko, read out the resolutions at the annual general meeting. The association emphasised the need for urgent action from the Federal Government. With the two-week deadline now running, NARD's demands place renewed pressure on the government to address the outstanding issues. The government must act quickly to prevent industrial action by resident doctors.
The ultimatum issued by NARD has significant implications for the healthcare sector in Nigeria. If the Federal Government fails to address the doctors' concerns, it may lead to industrial action. This could disrupt healthcare services and have negative consequences for patients. The government must engage with NARD to find solutions to these pressing issues and prevent a potential strike.
Key points
- NARD gives FG two-week ultimatum to address welfare, professional issues
- Resident doctors demand improved remuneration, compensation for excess workload
- NARD urges government to address factors driving migration of medical professionals
