Rédaction Africa Links 24 with George Ogala
Published on 2024-03-07 17:59:29
The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan has taken a stand to go on a three-day warning strike following an alleged assault on one of its members by a relative of a patient at the facility. This incident has led to a demand for improved security measures and a public apology to be published in two major national newspapers before the strike is called off.
In a joint statement by John Oladapo and Sunday Adegbite, the chairperson and secretary of the UCH ARD respectively, the association emphasized that any form of assault on its members will not be tolerated. They highlighted the need for enhanced security within the hospital premises to ensure the safety of doctors against any threats to their well-being.
The trigger for this strike was an incident where a doctor was physically attacked by two men while attending to a sickle cell patient in crisis at the emergency department. Despite seeking permission from the patient’s father to prioritize urgent care over paperwork, the doctor was confronted and beaten by the assailants who were connected to a deceased patient awaiting their death certificate. The mother of the patient was also subjected to physical violence during the altercation.
The doctors clarified that the attackers were upset about what they perceived as a delay in attending to the deceased patient’s paperwork, leading to a violent outburst towards the doctor. This unwarranted assault resulted in physical injuries as well as emotional distress for the doctor involved.
As a way to address this issue and prevent such incidents from occurring in the future, the ARD has put forth a set of demands, including an apology and a review of the hospital’s security protocols. These steps are seen as essential in creating a safer environment for healthcare professionals to carry out their duties without fear of violence or intimidation.
The decision to go on a warning strike reflects the seriousness with which the ARD views this incident and the broader issue of workplace safety for medical personnel. By taking this stand, the association aims to draw attention to the need for better protection and support for healthcare workers who are on the front lines of providing essential services to the community.
In conclusion, the ARD’s warning strike serves as a call to action for the hospital management and relevant authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of doctors and other healthcare workers. Addressing the concerns raised by the association is not only crucial for ensuring a conducive work environment but also for upholding the rights and dignity of those dedicated to saving lives and caring for patients.
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