The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) Federal Medical Centre, Owo chapter has called on Ondo state Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to reopen the hospitals across the state currently under lock and key.
The association in an Open letter dated 19th February, 2021, addressed to the governor and signed by Dr. Samuel Faturoti, Chairman of the Chapter said, "we are writing not only as a body of medical doctors, but also as residents in the state.
"Because we are domicile in Ondo State and care about the health of the good people of Ondo State, who are worst hit by the closure of the "Ondo State Government-owned hospitals.
"It is a known fact that you will be sworn in for another term in office by Feb. 24, 2021 and MDCAN, FMC, Owo chapter as a body wishes you well in office
"We need not reiterate that this is the mos trying time for the health
sector and healthcare workers due to the second wave of COVID-19, with Ondo State among states with the highest burden of the virus, according to figures released by the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) in recent times."
The association reminded the governor that the state-owned government hospitals across the 18 local government areas in Ondo State are patronised by the residents because, "it is affordable, furnished with experienced and committed healthcare workers and equipped with modern facilities.
"The closure of the hospitals therefore leave the residents with no other option than to patronise private health facilities which may not be affordable due to the economic situation of the land.
"Ondo state doctors and other health workers have been giving their best, endangering their lives even in the face of sub-optimal working conditions, and irregular salaries.
"In the process, some have died and those lucky to have survived have had to spend out of pocket to take care of themselves despite contracting COVID-19 and other diseases in the line of their duties.
"Paying us 50 percent of the irregular salary is demoralising and demotivating in the face of the daunting challenges we face."
The medical personnel therefore appealed to the governor to commence the payment of the full salary and as well make it regular.
"We believe that irrespective of the economy of the state, payment of full and regular salaries to doctors and other healthcare workers is one of the ways to guarantee an uninterrupted healthcare delivery to the citizens and residents of the State.
"We therefore appeal that as a caring and listening governor, you should look into this issue and take actions that will enhance speedy reopening of the hospitals under Ondo State Government,"the association appealed to the governor.
