Wednesday, October 30, 2024

‘We haven’t been paid our allowances’

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The Pharm D House Officers of 2022 have issued a press statement addressing recent claims by a member of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign team, Dr. Armoskoh, claiming that the officers had been paid their due allowances.

According to the officers, they have not received any of their unpaid allowances or compensation for their completed housemanship.

The statement, shared by GhOne TV on its social media handle, stated that the unpaid funds are not discretionary allowances but mandated compensation similar to a salary earned through their rigorous, full-time professional duties.

“We clarify that, contrary to these statements, we have not received our unpaid allowances or any other form of compensation for our completed housemanship.

“The funds due are essential, legally earned through non-discretionary allowances but mandated compensation akin to a salary,” the statement read.

According to the body, the non-payment has caused financial strain and emotional distress for the officers, who have been working under the same commitments and responsibilities as other healthcare professionals in similar training roles.

“Our work, directly supporting patient outcomes and public health, has been conducted under the same commitments and responsibilities held by medical doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in similar training roles.

“The non-payment of these due amounts has placed undue financial strain on us, leading to economic hardship and emotional distress,” the statement added.

The Pharm D House Officers called on the Ministry of Health and other relevant bodies to prioritise the immediate release of their owed funds.

They also urged government representatives to avoid misrepresenting the issue and to acknowledge the need for a swift resolution.

“We call upon the Ministry of Health and all relevant bodies to prioritize the immediate release of these funds. We also urge government representatives to refrain from misrepresenting this issue and instead acknowledge the need for a swift resolution.

“We stand ready to engage in constructive dialogue to ensure a transparent payment system for all future cohorts,” the statement read.

Background

In June 2024, 322 Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm D) House Officers threatened to sue the Ministry of Health over unpaid allowances following their one-year mandatory housemanship.

In a formal letter, the officers reiterated their concerns, referencing previous correspondence and meetings with the Pharmacy Council.

They warned of potential legal action if the issue remains unresolved.

See the letter below:

ID/MA

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