Nine positions within the allied healthcare sector have recently been authorized to receive overtime pay for a duration of six months. This update was communicated to medical superintendents, divisional medical officers, and heads of cost centers in an internal circular issued by the Ministry of Health.
According to the circular, the Public Service Commission (PSC) has approved overtime compensation for several roles classified under Band F salary. Those eligible positions include medical imaging technologists, senior pharmacy technicians, biomedical technical officers, dental technicians, junior physiotherapists, health inspectors, tobacco control enforcement officers, supervisory dietitians, and medical laboratory scientists. The provision for overtime pay is set to take effect from November 7, lasting for six months.
However, it was noted that an extension request for overtime payment for a higher-grade technical officer position at Labasa Hospital was denied. Alongside the announcement, concerns arose regarding the Ministry of Civil Service’s (MCS) new overtime and time-off in lieu (TOIL) policy, which had impacted service delivery at the CWM’s radiology and pharmacy departments.
MCS Permanent Secretary Parmesh Chand responded by stating that adjustments were made to the policy following discussions with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
This decision to grant overtime pay reflects a recognition of the critical roles healthcare professionals play, especially in a time when demanding healthcare needs are prevalent. Hopefully, this move will help alleviate some of the pressures faced by healthcare workers and improve service delivery in essential medical services.
In summary, key positions within the allied healthcare cadre will be eligible for overtime compensation for six months, indicating a responsive approach to the challenges faced within the healthcare system.
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