Addressing the shortage of medical personnel in Nigerian healthcare institutions

In a commendable effort to tackle the prevailing scarcity of healthcare professionals within the nation, the Federal Government has recently granted its esteemed approval for the recruitment of retired doctors, nurses, and other clinical healthcare workers as contract staff.

This astute decision stems from the profound recognition of the immeasurable experience and unparalleled expertise that these individuals possess, even after surpassing their obligatory retirement age or years of service.

As per the circular disseminated by the Federal Ministry of Health, dated October 5, 2023, Chief Executive Agencies, Chief Medical Directors, Medical Directors, and Heads of Regulatory Bodies and Schools have been duly instructed to ensure unwavering adherence to the circular previously issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to all personnel within their respective institutions.

Under this new arrangement, retired healthcare professionals who wish to continue serving the nation will have the opportunity to do so.

They will be offered contract positions on the same salary scale level that they retired on, provided they meet the necessary requirements and demonstrate their continued competence in their respective fields.

This decision by the government is expected to have a positive impact on the healthcare sector, as it will help alleviate the shortage of medical personnel in various healthcare institutions across the country. By tapping into the wealth of knowledge and experience possessed by retired doctors, nurses, and other clinical healthcare workers, the government aims to enhance the quality of healthcare services provided to the Nigerian population.

The initiative also recognised the dedication and commitment of these retired professionals, who have spent their careers serving the nation’s healthcare needs. By offering them the opportunity to continue contributing to the healthcare sector, the government acknowledges their invaluable contributions and ensures that their expertise is not lost.

This move is part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen the healthcare system and improve healthcare delivery in Nigeria. By providing retired healthcare professionals with the option to continue working, the government is taking a proactive step towards addressing the challenges faced by the sector.

As the nation moves forward, it is hoped that this initiative will not only bridge the gap in the healthcare workforce but also inspire younger generations to pursue careers in healthcare.

The wealth of knowledge and experience possessed by retired healthcare professionals can serve as a valuable resource for mentoring and training the next generation of healthcare workers.

The Federal Government’s decision to approve the appointment of retired doctors, nurses, and other clinical healthcare workers as contract staff is a significant step towards addressing the shortage of medical personnel in the country. By recognizing the expertise and experience of these individuals, the government is ensuring that their contributions to the healthcare sector continue to benefit the Nigerian population.

The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) has rejected a proposal to increase the retirement age for Medical/Dental Consultants and other health professionals.

The circular, titled ‘Re: Review of retirement age to 65 and 70 years for health professionals and medical/dental consultants,’ was sent to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH).

The proposal to raise the retirement age from 60 to 70 for health professionals and 75 for Medical/Dental Consultants was presented at the 44th National Council on Establishment, held from 5th to 9th December 2022 in Yola, Adamawa State. However, the OHCSF has deemed it necessary to reject the suggested changes.

However, the circular, signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Service Policies and Strategies Office, Olufemi Oloruntoba, on behalf of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, stated, “I am directed to refer to the above-mentioned memorandum… requesting a review of the current retirement age of Medical/Dental Consultants and other health professionals from 60 to 70 and 75 respectively.”

The decision to reject the proposed increase in retirement age has sparked controversy within the medical community. Supporters argue that extending the retirement age would allow experienced professionals to continue contributing their expertise to the healthcare sector, ensuring continuity and quality of care.

They believe that the current retirement age does not take into account the advancements in medical technology and the increasing life expectancy of the population. On the other hand, opponents of the proposal argue that increasing the retirement age could hinder opportunities for younger professionals to advance in their careers.

The rejection of the retirement age increase also raises questions about the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the healthcare sector. With an aging population and increasing demands on the healthcare system, some argue that retaining experienced professionals for a longer period could alleviate the strain on resources.The decision by the OHCSF is likely to prompt further discussions and debates among stakeholders in the medical field.

“After careful consideration of the memorandum, the council rejected the request based on the following: Professionals in the health sector were leaving the country because of pecuniary consideration and unfavourable conditions of service and not as a result of retirement age.

“Some state government had already increased the retirement age of medical doctors and other health workers and this has not addressed the spate of brain drain.”

It also said it was dissatisfied with health workers’ attitude to work, noting that in spite of efforts by the government to encourage health workers, the exodus of health workers had not abated.

“Council, however, approved that clinical health workers who have attained the compulsory retirement age/years may be given contract appointment on the same salary scale level that they retired on if desired and deserved.

“Government should engage the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Medical Association to extract some level of commitment from medical doctors.

“To address the observed dissatisfaction with the attitude of health workers to work, there is a need to institutionalise an effective performance management system in the public service in order to improve the work ethics of the medical officers and consultant, and medical doctors should show more patriotism in the discharge of their duties and avoid holding the system to ransom,” it added.

It remains to be seen whether alternative solutions will be proposed to address the concerns raised by both sides. As the medical community grapples with the implications of this decision, it is clear that the retirement age for health professionals will continue to be a topic of contention. Balancing the need for experienced professionals with the opportunities for younger generations will be crucial in ensuring the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of the healthcare sector.