The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos State chapter, has called for urgent intervention in the ongoing industrial dispute involving resident doctors at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), warning that prolonged inaction could disrupt healthcare delivery across the state.
The warning comes as resident doctors at the tertiary health institution continue a three-day warning strike over unresolved welfare and professional concerns.
The industrial action was initiated by the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), LASUTH, following resolutions reached during its 19th Ordinary General Meeting and Scientific Conference. The doctors said repeated engagements with relevant authorities had failed to produce satisfactory outcomes, prompting the temporary withdrawal of services.
Doctors Cite Welfare, Training Concerns
At the centre of the dispute are demands for improved welfare conditions, implementation of revised professional allowances, payment of specialist allowances to eligible senior registrars, and accelerated completion of accommodation facilities for resident doctors.
The doctors also want the release of residency training funds, payment of outstanding entitlements, and stronger support for medical training programmes within the state health sector.
Medical practitioners argue that these issues have remained unresolved despite several discussions with government officials and hospital authorities.
NMA Calls for Immediate Dialogue
Reacting to the development, the Lagos chapter of the NMA described the situation as unfortunate and avoidable, stressing that industrial actions in the health sector often occur when longstanding grievances are not addressed promptly.
The association urged all parties to return to the negotiating table and prioritise dialogue in order to prevent a deeper crisis that could affect patient care and hospital operations.
According to the NMA, the concerns raised by the resident doctors reflect broader challenges facing healthcare workers, including welfare deficits, delayed benefits, and inadequate support for postgraduate medical training.
Concerns Over Wider Healthcare Implications
Health sector stakeholders have warned that unresolved disputes involving medical personnel could further strain Nigeria’s already pressured healthcare system.
The NMA noted that similar welfare-related concerns have emerged in other public hospitals across the country, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts to improve working conditions and retain skilled healthcare professionals.
The association also referenced recent concerns raised by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), which issued a nationwide ultimatum to the Federal Government over unpaid allowances, residency training funding, security concerns, and other welfare issues affecting doctors.
Call for Swift Resolution
Healthcare advocates say a quick resolution is necessary to minimise disruption to patient services and restore industrial harmony within one of Lagos State’s largest referral hospitals.
The NMA urged the Lagos State Government, hospital management, and relevant stakeholders to engage constructively with the resident doctors and address outstanding concerns before the dispute escalates.
It maintained that improving the welfare of healthcare workers remains essential for strengthening service delivery, boosting morale, and ensuring quality healthcare for patients.
As negotiations continue, medical professionals have expressed hope that meaningful dialogue will lead to a lasting resolution and prevent further disruptions within the state’s healthcare system.
