Crisis in Hospitals: Unpaid 2024 Overtime for Health Workers

Since September 2024, a grave financial crisis has gripped public hospitals across the nation, plunging medical professionals and support staff into turmoil. The ongoing issue of unpaid overtime, a direct consequence of staff shortages, has reached a critical juncture. According to an insider from the Ministry of Health, this predicament stems from the depletion of funds allocated by the previous government.

“We simply do not have the means to compensate for these mandatory overtime hours or to recruit additional staff,” the l’Express source lamented, shedding light on the dire situation.

The impact of this crisis is palpable within hospital walls.

One doctor spoke candidly about the strains of the job, saying, “Working more than 24 hours in a row has become exhausting.

It affects my wellbeing. I remain committed to my patients, but the relentless fatigue and uncertainty make it increasingly difficult to cope.”

Another physician echoed these sentiments, stating,:

“This is not just a financial issue. The lack of recognition for our efforts weighs heavily on us. We work under immense pressure, unsure of when—or even if—we will be compensated.”

In response to this urgent matter, the Ministry of Health has reached out to the Ministry of Finance, urgently seeking funds to alleviate the crisis.

“We have alerted the authorities and are awaiting a swift response.

We understand the toll this situation takes on our teams, but the budgetary constraints are very real,” the l’Express source explained.

As it stands, no official announcement has been made regarding the payment of overtime hours, leaving medical staff in a state of uncertainty and distress.

Source: l’Express