In a significant breakthrough, doctors at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) have successfully secured key victories in a new agreement that promises to address long-standing issues related to job security, compensation, and professional development.
After months of negotiations, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has reached a comprehensive agreement with MTRH management, marking a turning point in the fight for better working conditions in the healthcare sector. The agreement, which includes several pivotal gains, is a clear demonstration of the power of solidarity and the collective resolve of MTRH doctors.
Key Outcomes of the Agreement:
1. Conversion to Permanent and Pensionable Terms: One of the most impactful wins is the decision to convert all eligible contract doctors with over one year of service to permanent and pensionable terms. This crucial step will be completed by April 30, 2025, eliminating the uncertainty and insecurity that has long been a feature of contract employment for medical professionals.
2. Salary Arrears Settlement: Doctors at MTRH will receive long-awaited salary arrears, as a joint committee has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of pending payments based on the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) job evaluation. This move ensures that doctors will be compensated fairly for their work in line with the established job grading.
3. Comprehensive Medical Insurance Coverage: In recognition of the critical role doctors play in the healthcare system, the agreement provides that all doctors will now be covered under a comprehensive medical insurance plan. This benefit will enhance their access to healthcare and provide peace of mind as they continue to care for their patients.
4. Immediate Promotions and Annual Career Advancement: Doctors who applied for competitive positions at MTRH will see their promotions reflected in the February pay slip, signaling a swift implementation of the changes. Furthermore, a commitment has been made to conduct promotions annually, ensuring that doctors have regular opportunities for professional growth and career progression.
5. Study Leave Implementation: The agreement also establishes clear guidelines for the implementation of study leave, ensuring that doctors can pursue further education and training in line with the MTRH/KMPDU Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). This development will help foster continuous professional development and improve the overall quality of healthcare.
6. Protection Against Disciplinary Action: Crucially, the agreement includes a provision that no doctor will face victimization or disciplinary action for participating in industrial action. This guarantees the right of medical practitioners to advocate for better working conditions without fear of retribution.
A Milestone Achievement
This historic agreement represents a major step forward for the doctors at MTRH and serves as a model for addressing healthcare workers’ concerns nationwide. It underscores the importance of solidarity, negotiation, and a shared commitment to improving the working environment for healthcare professionals.
KMPDU Secretary General, Davji Atella, expressed gratitude to all doctors for their unwavering commitment throughout the process. "This agreement is a direct result of the collective effort of our members. Together, we have made significant progress towards improving our working conditions, fair compensation, and respect within the healthcare system. However, our vigilance will continue to ensure the full and timely implementation of these gains."
Atella also called on MTRH management to work collaboratively with the union to create a supportive environment that enhances healthcare delivery for all. "This is a step in the right direction, but the journey towards a better healthcare system for both workers and patients is ongoing. We remain committed to working together to create a healthcare environment that is fair, just, and conducive to quality patient care."
The agreement marks a significant victory for MTRH doctors and sets a strong precedent for healthcare workers across the country, reinforcing the importance of fair labor practices and the need for continued dialogue to achieve lasting improvements in the healthcare sector.
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