Doctors Raise Welfare Concerns at Lokoja Teaching Hospital
Resident doctors at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Lokoja voiced frustrations over prolonged casualisation under CMD Dr. Olatunde Alabi. Eight doctors, requesting anonymity, highlighted the professional and financial strain from lacking permanent employment since 2012. They shared that continued casualisation has significantly impacted their work stability and financial security. The doctors called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene urgently to address these ongoing issues.
Staff Shortages Affecting Patient Care
The doctors stressed that severe staff shortages across departments are placing heavy burdens on medical personnel and impacting patient care. Only 94 doctors manage approximately 5,000 weekly patient visits, which has caused significant burnout and turnover. High turnover rates have resulted from these overwhelming workloads, leading to increased strain on remaining staff. Over half of their colleagues have resigned, which the doctors attribute to casualisation practices and poor working conditions.
Locum Employment and Lack of Benefits
The doctors’ main grievance centres on the hospital’s use of “locum” contracts for resident doctors, renewed every two months. Unlike permanent positions, locum roles lack pension benefits, pushing many doctors to seek job security elsewhere. One doctor noted that they are treated differently than colleagues in hospitals with permanent positions. This arrangement, described by one doctor as an “internal brain drain,” fuels staff dissatisfaction and turnover.
Residency Program Challenges
In addition to employment issues, doctors noted the ongoing suspension of the hospital’s residency training program, which has impacted medical officers’ in-house training opportunities. The lack of essential supplies, inadequate accommodation, and irregular access to basic amenities further contribute to the hospital’s operational challenges. This, they say, hinders not only their professional growth but also the hospital’s service delivery.
CMD Addresses Employment and Staff Retention Issues
CMD Dr. Alabi addressed these concerns, citing challenges in securing government waivers to convert locum staff into permanent employees. He explained that strict government protocols hinder efforts to replace staff who leave the hospital. Dr. Alabi also noted that the “Japa Syndrome” drives many professionals abroad seeking better opportunities. This trend further complicates staffing as healthcare workers continually pursue more stable or lucrative roles elsewhere.. “The waiver process is lengthy, and our hands are tied without government approval,” Dr. Alabi explained.
Calls for Government Intervention
Doctors are calling on the government to address the staffing and welfare issues that continue to impact their work environment and patient care. They emphasise that improved employment terms and adequate staffing are essential to stabilise the hospital and retain skilled professionals. For many, securing a waiver and providing permanent positions remain crucial steps in reversing the negative trends currently facing the Lokoja teaching hospital.
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