Nairobi Hospital night shift doctors ‘attacked by patients’, KMPDU react
Doctors working night shifts at the Nairobi Hospital have voiced concerns about increasing attacks by patients.
This information was revealed by the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah.
The revelation came after a meeting with the doctors on January, 18, 2024, to address various issues affecting their work environment.
In a statement to the media, Dr. Atellah disclosed that doctors reported at least two recent incidents of physical assaults by patients they were treating during night shifts.
Despite reporting these cases to the police, no action has been taken, raising significant concerns for the union, which is now advocating for the protection of its members.
“KMPDU convened a pivotal meeting with Nairobi Hospital doctors on January 18, 2024, to address a myriad of critical concerns voiced by the medical professionals. The discussions touched upon several pressing issues affecting the doctors’ daily work environment and overall well-being,” stated Dr. Atellah.
Among the concerns raised by the medics were high taxes imposed on their consultation fees, numerous violations of their employment contracts, and ongoing court cases, such as the KMPDU/Nairobi Hospital Recognition Agreement (RA).
Dr. Atellah emphasized the need for comprehensive resolution plans to address these multifaceted challenges.
“In response, the union outlined a comprehensive resolution plan, including Continuing Labour Engagement to empower members, plans to aggressively engage with management, including industrial action, and advocating for a broader Recognition Agreement (RA). The aim is to address and enhance working conditions, bridging the pay gap, ensuring fair treatment, and fostering professional growth,” he explained.
Dr. Atellah pledged to seek an audience with the management of the facility to reach an amicable agreement.
However, if negotiations prove inconclusive, the union may resort to industrial action to ensure their demands are heard.
“Emphasizing unity and optimism among doctors, the union navigates ongoing court cases, taxation challenges, and employment grievances with the overarching goal of securing a comprehensive recognition agreement (RA) and CBA,” he said.
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