The Tug of War Between Health Ministry, Doctors Goes On

Specialist doctors have been pursuing their strike along nationwide hospitals, for the third day in a row, while assuring a minimum level of service, noting that the Ministry of Health has resorted to justice to make the strike “illegal.”

The National Union for Public Health Practitioners (SNPSP) has condemned the “abusive measures” taken by the Ministry of Health against the striking doctors.

Mohamed Yousfi, Chairman of the SNPSP said the court is competent only to order to stop the strike, rather than considering it as illegal.

The unionist said tha Mr Ould Abbes has ordered Health Directorates to dock wages of the striking doctors, adding that it is the same “abusive measure” taken by the ministry during the three day strike early this month. “It’s an offense on union freedoms,” complained Mr Yousfi. 

Meanwhile, the SNPSP stated that the strike national turnout hit 80 percent, while the Ministry of Health challenged such a figure, saying the participation rate is around 8 percent.

The SNPSP vowed to launch an unlimited strike on April, in accordance with the recommendations of the union’s executive council, amid the ministry’s snub to open dialogue. The Ministry says “no dialogue is needed as all of the demands have been dealt with.” 

For sure, patients are the most to suffer in such a tug of war, as they are to see their surgery appointments postponed to a later date.

 While the ministry accuses the striking doctors of “neglecting patients,” the SNPSP chairman assured that a minimum level of service will be provided in all hospitals.

The SNPSP is demanding public service incentives, compliance with regulations governing healthcare resources, higher bonuses, and a competitive basis for promotions.