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 association issued the ultimatum at its 46th annual general meeting in Calabar, Cross River State, on Sunday, warning that failure to resolve the issues could lead to industrial action.
In resolutions read by its national president, Ogar Emmanuel Idoko, NARD expressed concern over the slow implementation of agreements reached with the federal government.
The doctors said the prolonged delays had become unacceptable and demanded urgent action on remuneration, career progression, professional allowances, excessive workload, manpower shortages and the general welfare of resident doctors.
NARD called for “the immediate implementation of agreements reached with the federal government, particularly those relating to improved conditions of service and professional development”.
Resident doctors demand excess workload compensation
The association also demanded appropriate compensation for doctors carrying additional workloads because of manpower shortages in hospitals.
It said resident doctors were increasingly taking on responsibilities beyond their normal duties because of inadequate staffing.
NARD called for standardised templates for compensating doctors for excess workload, as well as reliable data to support payments to those performing additional duties.
NARD raises alarm over attacks on health workers
The association expressed concern over attacks on health workers and called for the full implementation of existing policies and anti-assault measures designed to protect doctors and other medical personnel in hospitals.
It also raised concerns about the continued migration of doctors and other health professionals from Nigeria.
NARD urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to urgently address the factors driving the continued migration of medical professionals.
The association further called on state governments to prioritise the welfare of doctors and other health workers employed by their institutions and ensure the implementation of relevant welfare policies.
