The Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) chapter of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) has called on the state government to introduce a housing scheme or policy to address the accommodation challenges faced by its members.
The association emphasized that affordable housing options would significantly improve the quality of life for resident doctors, enhance their productivity, and strengthen their commitment to delivering quality healthcare services.
This appeal was part of a communiqué issued at the conclusion of the association’s 2024 Annual General Meeting, held in Port Harcourt. The communiqué, signed by the outgoing RSUTH ARD President, Dr. Nimi Ngo Briggs, was made available to journalists.
The RSUTH ARD stressed the urgent need for targeted initiatives to provide medical professionals with access to decent and affordable housing, especially considering the challenges posed by demanding work schedules and rising living costs.
The communiqué read in part: “The government should develop a housing scheme to provide proximity to the hospital, enhance comfort, and reduce brain drain. We also recommend supporting vehicle procurement for resident doctors to improve emergency response and introducing international training exchange programmes to expose doctors to advanced global medical practices.”
The association further urged the Rivers State government to domesticate and implement the Medical Residency Training Act passed by the Rivers State House of Assembly, noting that it would raise the standards of medical training and ensure consistent grants for resident doctors to achieve optimal training outcomes.
Additionally, the ARD commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for the recent employment of new resident doctors and other staff at RSUTH, describing it as a step toward addressing manpower challenges in the healthcare system.
The AGM concluded with the election of a new executive council to lead the association. The newly elected leadership includes Dr. Nonju Tamunobarabi as President, Dr. Egbelekro Homachi as Vice President, Dr. Njoku Bestman as General Secretary, Dr. Wunuh Cyril as Assistant Secretary, and Dr. Uzoma Emeka as Treasurer, among others.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Nonju Tamunobarabi pledged to prioritize the welfare of resident doctors by advocating for better remuneration, improved working conditions, and professional growth opportunities.
The ARD assured its members of continued efforts to champion their holistic well-being and remain a strong voice for their interests in the state.
