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. The ultimatum was issued at the association's 46th Annual General Meeting in Calabar. NARD National President, Dr. Ogar Emmanuel Idoko, read the resolutions. The association expressed concern over the slow implementation of agreements reached with the government.
The resident doctors demanded immediate action on issues relating to remuneration, career progression, professional allowances, excessive workload, manpower shortages, and general welfare. They called for the implementation of agreements reached with the Federal Government, particularly those related to improved conditions of service and professional development. The association also urged the government to review existing remuneration and professional salary structures for doctors.
The current salary framework no longer adequately reflects prevailing economic realities, according to NARD. The association demanded appropriate compensation for excess workload arising from manpower shortages in hospitals. Resident doctors are increasingly carrying additional responsibilities. The association called for standardized templates for compensation for excess workload and reliable data to justify payments to doctors performing duties beyond their normal responsibilities.
NARD expressed concern over attacks on health workers and called for the full implementation of policies and anti-assault measures designed to protect doctors and other medical personnel in hospitals. The association also raised concern over the continuing migration of doctors and other health professionals from Nigeria. This development has worsened manpower shortages and increased the workload on doctors who remained in the country.
NARD urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to urgently address the factors responsible for the continued migration of medical professionals. The association also called on state governments to prioritize the welfare of doctors and other health workers employed by their respective institutions. They should ensure the implementation of relevant welfare policies.
The association demanded improved infrastructure, adequate medical equipment, and better working conditions in health institutions to enhance patient safety and improve healthcare delivery. The resolution urged the National Assembly to strengthen budgetary provisions for healthcare. Adequate funding remains critical to addressing challenges in the sector.
The association demanded the prompt payment of salaries and other entitlements owed to house officers and called for their inclusion in relevant welfare arrangements. NARD elected new national officers, with Dr. Ogar Emmanuel Idoko emerging as president. The association urged the new leadership to pursue the implementation of the resolutions and sustain engagement with the government towards achieving improved conditions of service for resident doctors.
Key points
- Resident doctors issue two-week ultimatum to Federal Government over unresolved issues.
- Association demands improved welfare, working conditions, and implementation of agreements.
- Unresolved issues may trigger industrial action, affecting healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
