Worrying about the exodus of health workers to other countries for a better working condition and greener pastures, the Ondo State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association has advised the state government to improve the welfare of its members and discourage their exodus out of the state.
The association appealed to the government to implement an improved salary structure – the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure across all healthcare sectors to discourage the brain drain that had hit the sector in recent times.
Speaking with journalists in Akure, the state capital, at an occasion heralding the 2024 Physicians Week, on Tuesday, the state Chairman of NMA, Olumuyiwa Alonge, attributed the exodus of health workers to the poor condition of service, urging the government to improve the welfare of health workers in the state.
This year’s celebration was themed, ‘Ensuring universal applicability in remuneration: a panacea to talent retention in the healthcare system,’ with sub-themes, which include, ‘Mitigating the impact of infectious diseases: addressing the monkeypox outbreak and beyond,’ as well as ‘ Early detection of breast cancer and current trends in the management of breast cancer.’
Alonge pointed out that when healthcare professionals are remunerated fairly and equitably, they will feel valued and respected and that will strengthen their commitment and dedication to patient care.
He said, “We urge all levels of government to ensure the uniform implementation of our salary structure, the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure across all healthcare levels. We also call for the prompt payment of all outstanding arrears related to salary upgrades, including the new minimum wage.
“In recent years, we have observed an alarming trend: our most experienced and skilled healthcare professionals, the lifeblood of our healthcare system, are leaving Nigeria for opportunities abroad in drives, and our dear state is not spared. This mass exodus, known as brain drain, is not merely a symptom of individual decisions; it is a consequence of a system that has failed to offer compensation and career fulfilment.
“Fair remuneration is more than just a salary figure; it is a recognition of our value, a motivator for excellence, and a safeguard against burnout. In healthcare, adequate compensation reflects time and emotional energy. When a healthcare worker is remunerated fairly and fairly, they feel valued and respected. This respect, in turn, fuels their dedication, strengthens their commitment to patient care, and fortifies the larger health ecosystem.
“Many doctors and indeed health workers find themselves overworked and underpaid, and the inconsistency in salaries is evident not only across the country but even within similar healthcare institutions. These disparities discouraged young and talented healthcare professionals from entering or staying in the workforce, ultimately exacerbating the burden on those who remain behind to serve.”
The chairman also pleaded that, apart from salary remuneration, the government should improve working conditions for healthcare workers, as this will help retain talents in the profession.