Nurses, Doctors and KHMH workers who make up the Coalition of Medical Professionals say they are ready to, quote, "take the necessary actions" to correct, quote, "the failing state of our healthcare system." And they are giving government 7 days to hold urgent meeting.
A release issued today, quote, demands "that those with authority make the necessary changes within the health system to facilitate adequate, timely and efficient healthcare delivery."
They cite, quote, "an extreme shortage of basic supplies, human resources and the necessary and needed equipment…putting patient's rehabilitation and even lives at risk." End quote.
They are calling for, quote, "urgent and meaningful intervention from the Government of Belize….and requesting a meeting…with the Ministry of Health and Wellness; the Financial Secretary; and others, quote, "within the next seven (7) days, to address and discuss the following issues
1. Extreme shortage of medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, and human resources throughout the country;
2. Pension status and exemption of Income tax from severance of KHMHA employees and salary review for all healthcare workers;..." Among other issues.
3. Appointment of representatives from the membership of the BMDA, the KHMHAWU and the NAB on the MOHW tendering committee;
4. Defining higher education and experience in a health-related field as a prerequisite for the appointment to the post of Minister of health
Among other issues. It's a long list of demands, and the release says "Failure to meet, discuss and find tangible short and long term working solutions will result in the BCHP taking the necessary actions against the failing state of our healthcare system." End quote.
We'll keep following it to see what happens before next week Friday.
