GOVERNMENT has extended an olive branch to doctors by pledging to clear outstanding debt and offer promotions.
The move aims to mend fences and ensure quality healthcare reaches all corners of the country.
Health minister Sylvia Masebo reaffirmed government’s position on clearing up debt and salary arrears it owes all doctors in the country.
Speaking as she officiated at the Resident Doctors of Zambia (RDAZ) 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Scientific Conference, Masebo said government will dismantle debt owed to doctors and promote deserving doctors placing them on the right salary scale.
“Government is still committed to employing more health care workers. My ministry will ensure that debt owed to doctors and all health workers in general is continuously dismantled.”
“Government will also ensure career progression for deserving health workers by promoting them and placing them in correct salary scales.” she said.
Masebo encouraged doctors to be professional in their conduct urging them to accept working in any part of the country when posted, even in the remotest of places.
She emphasised that doctors’ rendered services, especially in rural areas, was the only way of providing equal and cost effective quality health care to all Zambians.
“Deploying doctors in the under-served remote areas is the only sure way to realise the vision of providing equitable access to cost-effective quality healthcare services to the people.” said Masebo.
And resident doctors association president Dr Mweushi Mphande recognised and commended Government’s move of employing volunteer medical personnel during the cholera pandemic.
He however called for enhanced collaborative efforts between his association and government during the promoting process of doctors.
“There is a need for enhanced collaboration and consultations between government and stakeholders when employing and promoting health workers.” said Mphande.
By Elesani Phiri
Kalemba April 8, 2024
