The Fiji Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences is urging the government to reconsider the limited duration of approved overtime payments for Allied Health Band F positions within the Ministry of Health. In a recent statement, the president of the institute, Jignesh Sharma, expressed gratitude for the ministry’s initiative to approve these overtime payments. However, he raised concerns regarding the decision to limit these payments to just six months.
Mr. Sharma referred to an internal circular issued by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Dr. Jemesa Tudravu, which specifies that the overtime payments will be effective from November 7, 2024, but will last only for six months. He highlighted the pressing need for a more stable and long-term solution to ensure that medical laboratories are adequately staffed, especially in sub-divisional areas where personnel numbers are critically low.
The president emphasized that many laboratories struggle with insufficient staff, often operating with only a handful of professionals. He questioned the rationale behind implementing a temporary solution for a matter that demands a more comprehensive approach. Mr. Sharma called for the government to develop a permanent fix to prevent recurring staffing issues in the future.
In his remarks, he underlined the importance of matching staffing numbers with the needs of the facilities. If these challenges are not properly addressed, he warned of significant repercussions for medical laboratory staff and the services they provide, particularly in less staffed areas.
Summary: The Fiji Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences is advocating for an extension of the approved overtime payments for Allied Health Band F positions, which are currently set to last six months. The institute stresses the need for a lasting solution to staffing shortages in medical laboratories, as many facilities already operate with minimal personnel.
It is hopeful that increased dialogue and collaboration between the government and healthcare professionals will lead to sustainable solutions that enhance the efficiency of health services in Fiji. This proactive approach could bolster the quality of healthcare, ensuring that medical laboratories operate effectively for the benefit of the community.
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