The Kano State chapter of the National Association of Government General and Medical Dental Practitioners has announced its decision to embark on an indefinite strike starting October 1, 2024, following the Kano State Government’s failure to honour agreements made with the medical community.
During a press briefing held on Saturday, Dr. Anas Idris Hassan, the secretary of the association, expressed the growing frustration and disappointment among medical practitioners. “Despite reaching an agreement with the Kano State Government in June, our demands are yet to be met,” Dr. Anas said.
One of the critical issues highlighted by the association is the nonpayment of post-COVID-19 hazard allowances. These allowances have been provided by the Federal Government since 2021 but remain unpaid by the Kano State Government. Dr. Anas also shed light on the plight of newly employed doctors, many of whom have not received their salaries since their hiring in September 2023.
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The association raised additional concerns regarding the deteriorating conditions of hospitals across Kano State, citing a lack of essential medical equipment and resources necessary for effective healthcare delivery. “We must address these ugly trends immediately,” Dr. Anas emphasized, warning of the severe implications for patient care and health outcomes in the region.
Dr. Anas also drew attention to the alarming doctor-to-patient ratio in Kano, which he described as falling far below acceptable standards. With an estimated population of 20 million people, the state is served by only 600 doctors, resulting in a ratio of one doctor for every 33,000 patients. This is significantly lower than the World Health Organization’s recommended ratio of one doctor per 1,000 people.
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Faced with these critical challenges and the government’s inaction, the medical practitioners feel they have no choice but to proceed with the planned strike on October 1. The association called on the Kano State Government to take immediate action to prevent further disruptions in healthcare services, stressing the urgency of fulfilling the agreements and addressing the concerns of medical professionals.
The impending strike threatens to paralyze healthcare delivery in Kano State, potentially leaving thousands of patients without access to necessary medical care. The association reiterated its commitment to the wellbeing of the people but insisted that the government must show genuine commitment to improving the working conditions and welfare of medical professionals in the state.