Abia Govt cautions new medical staff against absenteeism, sale of hospital property

Abia State Government has charged the newly recruited medical staff in the state to handle patients, drugs and public funds with integrity, warning that absenteeism, extortion of patients and the sale of consumables in hospitals or primary healthcare centres will not be tolerated.

The Chairman of the Abia State Civil Service Commission, Pastor Eno Jerry, gave the warning on Thursday in Umuahia during an orientation programme her office organised for the newly employed doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory scientists and other medical staff.

She said misconduct would not be tolerated among the new staff, adding that there is zero tolerance for unprofessionalism in the Abia State Public Service.

The Chairman of the Civil Service Commission said the employment of more health workers was aimed at improving healthcare delivery for the people of Abia State.

Eno Jerry charged the new medical workers to always respect their patients, including persons with disabilities, and also accord due respect to senior medical personnel.

“Handle patients, drugs and public funds with honesty. There is zero tolerance for absenteeism and extortion.

“You are custodians of public resources. The telescopes, gloves and drugs in that hospital belong to the people of Abia.

“Do not sell hospital consumables. Do not demand money before rendering service, and please utilise the whistleblower policy if you observe any misconduct,” Eno Jerry said.

She further told the staff that patients in Abia State would judge the administration of Governor Alex Otti by the treatment they receive in hospital wards, laboratories and clinics.

Also addressing the new employees, the Abia State Head of Service, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, encouraged them to help drive Governor Alex Otti’s healthcare delivery agenda.