Ganta United Methodist Hospital Back to Full Operations after Staff Protest.
Following a temporary halt in services due to a staff protest, Ganta United Methodist Hospital has resumed full operations. Hospital Administrator Allen Zomoway informed the Daily Observer that all services are now functioning normally, with efforts underway to address any outstanding salary arrears for the staff.
The staff protest, which commenced on February 16, 2023, was prompted by a delay in settling two months’ worth of salaries and various grievances related to compensation and management conduct. However, negotiations between the workers’ union and management led to the conclusion of the strike action on February 20, 2024.
During the negotiations, the workers’ union raised concerns about low salaries, perceived disrespect from the administrator, salary advances, timely payment of salaries, and other benefits. While management cited financial challenges for not considering salary increments, they expressed commitment to resolving the issues and ensuring timely payment of salaries moving forward.
Mr. Zomoway reassured that normal hospital operations have resumed, with efforts in place to fulfill all salary arrears promptly. Additionally, the hospital has introduced modern medical equipment, including an EKG machine and ultrasound machines, to enhance diagnostic capabilities and reduce the need for patients to seek tests elsewhere.
“Our partner in Germany provided medical equipment, including an EKG machine and two advanced ultrasound machines,” stated Mr. Zomoway. He emphasized the importance of these additions in improving healthcare services and reducing patient referrals to other facilities.
The EKG machine, which is new to the hospital, is primarily used to test heartbeats, offering a significant advantage in diagnostic capabilities. Mr. Zomoway expressed gratitude for the acquisition of this essential equipment, which eliminates the need for patients to seek such tests elsewhere.
Administrator Zomoway also appealed to the government to increase financial support to the hospital, highlighting its vital role in providing healthcare services not only to local communities but also to individuals from neighboring countries. He underscored the hospital’s importance as a regional healthcare provider and stressed the need for continued financial assistance to sustain operations and serve a broader population.
“This hospital serves people from across the Mano River basin, especially Guinea, Ivory Coast, and other counties,” emphasized Mr. Zomoway. He emphasized the hospital’s commitment to providing affordable healthcare services to all, irrespective of their ability to pay, and reiterated the importance of continued support from the government and other stakeholders.
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