Medical Laboratory Workers Lack Established Conditions of Service, Says MELPWU General Secretary
Dr. Cephas Akortor, General Secretary of MELPWU, reveals that medical laboratory workers lack a formal conditions of service document, affecting their benefits and leaving them without insurance coverage.
In a revealing interview on JoyNews’ 'The Probe', Dr. Cephas Akortor, the General Secretary of the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers' Union (MELPWU), disclosed that the union does not possess established conditions of service for its members. This absence, he emphasized, deprives workers of fundamental benefits, including essential insurance services.
The union initiated a strike on June 17, citing the government's failure to address their conditions of service as the primary reason. This industrial action has had a profound impact on public health services, causing disruptions that have left patients stranded and compelled many to seek pricier laboratory services from private facilities.
Dr. Akortor highlighted the hazardous nature of their work, which involves handling specimens like blood and urine from individuals with various health conditions. Despite these risks, he lamented, the workers lack health insurance coverage, a critical safety net. He recounted instances during the COVID-19 pandemic where union members working in laboratories contracted the virus and succumbed to their illnesses, often without adequate healthcare support.
Addressing the dire situation faced by MELPWU members, Dr. Akortor underscored the urgent need for improved conditions of service. He clarified that the union's demands are not based on an existing framework but rather on an extension of benefits enjoyed by others in similar roles. He insisted that such disparities must be rectified to ensure fair treatment and adequate protections for medical laboratory workers.
The temporary suspension of the strike does not imply resolution, as MELPWU remains poised to resume industrial action should the government fail to meet their demands. Dr. Akortor expressed hope for a swift and equitable resolution to prevent further disruptions to healthcare services and to safeguard the welfare of medical laboratory professionals across the country.
For more updates on this developing story, visit Top Knowledge Media and stay informed.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from TOP KNOWLEDGE MEDIA.
Contact: toppknowledgemedia@gmail.com
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The TOP KNOWLEDGE MEDIA on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!
Join Top Knowledge Media Channel:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaEUCpP4NVigCMWy8J22
What's Your Reaction?
