Hungry doctors are dangerous doctors ~ NARD President, Orji

The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), a collective of Nigerian doctors, has embarked on a strike due to the failure of the Federal Government to address their demands. Resident doctors constitute a significant portion of the medical professionals in Nigeria’s tertiary hospitals, and their strikes significantly disrupt hospital operations.

Among their grievances, the doctors are seeking the immediate disbursement of the 2023 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), substantial progress in “upward review” of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), and the settlement of all outstanding salary arrears dating back to 2015. Dr. Emeka Orji, the National President of NARD, shared insights on these issues in an interview with DAILY POST. Here are some key excerpts:

Government’s Implementation of ‘No Work No Pay’ Policy: Dr. Orji expressed dismay at the government’s approach of penalizing doctors for striking when it was the government’s failure to meet their demands that prompted the strike. He found this approach contrary to the principles of justice and natural equity. He stressed that striking doctors are focused on resolving the issues at hand and that penalizing them would exacerbate the situation rather than solving it.

Financial Consequences of ‘No Work No Pay’: Dr. Orji mentioned that NARD members had anticipated this move by the government. He emphasized that the doctors’ primary focus is the resolution of their demands. If the government addresses their concerns, it will pave the way for a return to work. However, punitive measures like ‘no work no pay’ would be counterproductive.

Government’s Accusation of Doctors for Escalation: Dr. Orji clarified that it is the government’s actions that have escalated the situation, as they have reneged on agreements with the association and not addressed their concerns in a timely manner. He highlighted that NARD’s focus is on resolving issues, not escalating them. He noted that the government has been reaching out to NARD since the strike notice, indicating a willingness to engage in negotiations.

Impact on Patient Care and Public Health: Dr. Orji highlighted that patient care had already been compromised due to the shortage of doctors and nurses in hospitals even before the strike. Patients often experience delays in receiving treatment and emergency cases are inadequately managed due to limited resources. He emphasized that doctors’ well-being is crucial for providing quality healthcare, and addressing their concerns would positively impact patient care.

Doctor-Patient Relationship and Public Trust: Dr. Orji acknowledged that NARD strives to maintain a positive doctor-patient relationship despite challenges. He emphasized that Nigerians’ support in fighting for the health sector’s survival would significantly alleviate the need for strikes. He expressed that NARD’s actions are driven by the necessity to advocate for doctors’ rights and the health sector’s improvement.

Progress in Negotiations with the Government: The key issues for NARD are the disbursement of the 2023 MRTF, resolution of salary arrears, and addressing the manpower shortage in hospitals. Dr. Orji indicated that NARD is engaging the government in negotiations, hoping for a timely resolution.

End of Strike: Dr. Orji expressed optimism that well-meaning Nigerians’ interventions could facilitate a fruitful outcome in negotiations with the government. He emphasized NARD’s dedication to resolving the issues and returning to work once concerns are addressed.

Justification for Strikes: Dr. Orji clarified that strikes are often a last resort when negotiations and efforts to engage the government fail. He explained that the public is often unaware of the extensive discussions and attempts to avert strikes. NARD’s primary objective is to ensure doctors’ well-being and enhance the health sector, and strikes become necessary when dialogue does not yield results.

Lamenting the Tragic Death of Lagos Doctor: Dr. Orji expressed sorrow over the demise of Dr. Diaso Vwaere due to a faulty elevator. He highlighted the broader issue of inadequate infrastructure in hospitals and underscored the need for systemic improvements. He called for accountability and measures to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.

Dr. Emeka Orji’s interview sheds light on the complexities and motivations behind NARD’s actions, highlighting their commitment to improving the health sector and advocating for doctors’ rights.