The Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners, Ota Zone, Ogun State, Dr Oluseye Olufunso, on Saturday called on Governor Dapo Abiodun to resolve the ongoing indefinite strike embarked upon by doctors working in state-owned hospitals.
Olufunso stated that this unfortunate development has left many residents of the state, particularly those who are ill, without access to medical care.
The ANPMP Chairman made this appeal while addressing journalists on the sidelines of a free medical outreach in Sango Ota.
He described the strike as an additional burden on the residents, who are already grappling with economic hardships.
It should be recalled that the state chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association had directed doctors in public hospitals to embark on an indefinite strike from August 3 due to disparities in remuneration.
The doctors claimed that the state government had refused to implement an upward review of their CONMESS salary structure, as the federal government and some other states have done.
They argued that this has prompted many doctors to leave the state for neighbouring states like Lagos and even Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilisan Remo, where remuneration is more favourable.
Olufunso, however, urged the governor to swiftly address the demands of the striking doctors to restore normalcy to the state’s healthcare sector.
The association chairman added that there is a need for governments at all levels to prioritise the health sector by improving working conditions and welfare packages for medical and health workers.
According to him, no fewer than 500 residents will benefit from the free medical care during the outreach, which aims to educate residents on the importance of regular health checks, particularly for hypertension, diabetes, dental care, and other health issues.
“The outreach is aimed at educating residents on the importance of regular health checks, particularly for hypertension, diabetes, dental care, and other forms of diseases.
“Many of these ailments, which we pay little or no attention to, are the reasons for the sudden collapse of people, which is now leading to death.”
“Despite all these challenges, it is very unfortunate that our government still allows medical doctors to go on strike over their unresolved demands.”
Olufunso said that the sudden collapse of people leading to death could be prevented if individuals prioritise their health and the government makes healthcare services more affordable, with free healthcare for the poor and vulnerable. (Punch)
