Ekiti Govt Constitutes Panel To End Incessant Attacks Of Health Personnel

By Ayodele Oni

Following incessant attacks on health workers in Ekiti state government owned hospitals, the state government has initiated moves to end the frosty relationship between them and the public

Of recent, doctors and nurses at government owned health institutions are being subjected to attacks by relations of patients due to what they as their non challant attitudes.

Some relations of a dead patients few weeks ago beat up doctors and nurses at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, (EKSUTH) following the demise of the patient due to refusal of those on duty to promptly attend to the deceased.

This led to boycott if duty by the health personnel at EKSUTH and vowed not to resume until government could guarantee their safety.

As a first step to enhance conducive working environment, the state government has constituted a panel amongst other things, to investigate the perceived poor health worker attitude and suggest any other measures to improve quality of care delivered at the Accident & Emergency Department of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital.

Government statement in Ado Ekiti stated that “The Ministry of Health and Human Services would like to first of all address the recent incidents of patient/patient relatives’ assault on doctors and other health care workers at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) in the discharge of their duties.

“We want to assure members of staff and the public that swift action has been taken in response to these regrettable events as the suspects involved have been apprehended and charged to court, while measures to enhance security within the hospital premises have been implemented.

“Additionally, we acknowledge the concerns raised by care seeking members of the state regarding the challenges they face in accessing healthcare services at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH).

“Rest assured, we are actively investigating these bottlenecks with a view to streamline and improve service delivery.

“We urge the general public to remain calm as we work to address these matters effectively.

“In line with the above, and given the more recent events, the Ministry of Health and Human Services has informed the board of EKSUTH to set up a review panel to thoroughly investigate these complaints.

“The 10-member panel of enquiry, Co-Chaired by Dr. Femi Thomas and Dr. Sunkanmi Alabi; is to amongst other things, investigate the perceived poor health worker attitude and suggest any other measures to improve quality of care delivered at the Accident & Emergency Department of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital.

“The interim report of the Committee is to be submitted in 72 hours while their comprehensive report is expected within 2 weeks.

“Furthermore, a comprehensive capacity-building programme for all staff members will be initiated shortly to ensure optimal service delivery while creating a safer and more conducive work environment.

“We appreciate the continued support and cooperation of all stakeholders as we strive to uphold the highest standards of healthcare delivery in Ekiti State.”