Overtime Boost for Healthcare: Which Positions Made the Cut?

Nine positions within the allied healthcare sector are now set to receive overtime pay for a duration of six months. This decision was communicated to medical superintendents, divisional medical officers, and heads of cost centers through an internal circular issued by the Ministry of Health on Friday.

The circular specified that the Public Service Commission (PSC) has approved overtime payments for various roles classified under Band F salary. The eligible positions include medical imaging technologist, senior pharmacy technician, biomedical technical officer, dental technician, junior physiotherapists, health inspector, tobacco control enforcement officer, supervisor dietician, and medical laboratory scientists. These changes take effect starting November 7.

While the overtime payment has been sanctioned for these nine roles, the request for a continuation of overtime payment for the technical officer higher grade position at Labasa Hospital was not approved.

Throughout the week, there were concerns regarding a new policy issued by the Ministry of Civil Service (MCS) regarding overtime and time-off in lieu (TOIL), which has reportedly affected service delivery, particularly in the radiology and pharmacy departments at CWM Hospital. In response to these concerns, MCS permanent secretary Parmesh Chand confirmed that adjustments to the policy were made following discussions with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.

This development is a positive step towards supporting the healthcare workforce, ensuring that those in critical positions are compensated for their extra efforts, especially as the demand for healthcare services remains high. The temporary extension of overtime pay could enhance job satisfaction and morale among healthcare professionals, ultimately benefiting patient care.

In summary, the Ministry of Health has taken an important initiative to recognize and compensate allied healthcare workers for their overtime contributions, which is a vital aspect of maintaining effective healthcare services during challenging times.