The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ondo State chapter, has sounded the alarm on the mass exodus of healthcare professionals from the country, describing it as a consequence of a system that has failed to offer fair compensation and career fulfillment.
According to the Chairman of NMA in the state, Dr. Olumuyiwa Alonge, the uniform implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) across all healthcare levels is crucial to curb the brain drain plaguing the health sector.
Speaking at a press conference to herald the annual Physicians’ Week in the state, Dr. Alonge emphasized that when healthcare professionals are remunerated fairly and equitably, they feel valued and respected, thus strengthening their commitment and dedication to patient care.
The theme of the week, “Ensuring Universal Applicability in Remuneration: A Panacea to Talent Retention in the Healthcare System,” highlights the urgent need for a uniform salary structure to retain top talent in the healthcare sector.
The NMA is calling on all levels of government to ensure the prompt payment of all outstanding arrears related to salary upgrades, including the new minimum wage. The association also stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of brain drain, which includes the lack of fair compensation and career fulfillment opportunities.
The mass exodus of healthcare professionals from Nigeria is a pressing concern, with many experienced and skilled professionals leaving the country for opportunities abroad
The NMA is urging the government to take immediate action to address this issue, which is not merely a symptom of individual decisions but a consequence of a system that has failed to offer compensation and career fulfillment.
“We urge all levels of government to ensure the uniform implementation of our salary structure, the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), across all healthcare levels.”
