LOCUM DOCTORS TO BE ENGAGED IN FEDERAL HOSPITALS

The Federal Government has directed Chief Medical Directors of Federal Hospitals to immediately engage the services of Locum doctors, as Resident doctors continue with their strike.

The Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, gave the directive in order to augment the services of Consultants, pending the resolution of the on-going strike by Resident doctors.

The Minister had earlier approved the use of health facilities of Armed forces, Police and Federal Road Safety Corps in ensuring continuous provision of health care services in the Federal Hospitals.

A statement by the Director, Media and Public Relations in the Ministry, Mrs. Boade Akinola indicates that the directive was contained in a circular dated Sept. 5, addressed to all CMDs/MDs of Federal Tertiary Health Institutions across the country.

According to the Minister, the directive is an attempt by the government to reduce the increased work load of Consultants, NYSC doctors and House Officers, thereby preventing reduction in quality of service delivery to patients.

NAN/ NONSO KALU