ESUT Doctors Declare Indefinite Strike Over Insecurity and Staffing Issues

The Association of Resident Doctors of Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital (ARD-ESUT) has announced an indefinite strike due to several pressing issues including a severe shortage of doctors, insecurity within the hospital premises, and inadequate support for the residency program.

In a communique released after their Emergency General Meeting, the doctors stated that the strike will commence on January 31, 2024, following a seven-week grace period during which their demands were not met despite multiple notifications to the Enugu State government.

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The association expressed disappointment at the management of ESUT Parklane and the Enugu State government for failing to address the critical issues affecting healthcare delivery. They highlighted the dire need for additional medical staff, especially in departments such as Accident and Emergency, Surgery, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Moreover, the doctors raised concerns about the escalating insecurity within the hospital premises, citing the absence of security personnel and an increase in assaults on medical staff. They emphasized the urgent need for the implementation of safety policies to protect healthcare workers from physical attacks and kidnappings.

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Additionally, the ARD-ESUT highlighted the non-payment of the 2023 Medical Residency Training Fund and salary increments, as well as the exclusion of house officers from government-issued hardships/palliatives. They also voiced opposition to plans to increase rent for hospital quarters, which they believe will exacerbate the existing crises.

The association urged Governor Peter Mbah to intervene in the matter to prevent further hardship and potential loss of lives resulting from a disruption in healthcare delivery in the state.

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This strike underscores the challenges faced by healthcare workers in Enugu State and the urgent need for government intervention to address the underlying issues affecting medical staff and patient care.