Alleged Negligence: Kano medical doctors defend suspended colleague

The National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP) of Kano State, has refuted allegations made against one of their members, who was suspended on claims of negligence. 

The association described the statement issued by the public relations officer of the Executive Secretary of the Hospital Management Board, Kano State, as “deceptive, misleading, and fabricated.”

According to a press release signed by the chairman of the association, Dr. Aminu Kabiru Muhd, the group said the patient in question was admitted to Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital on May 12, 2024, with chronic kidney disease and required emergency dialysis due to a deranged electrolyte balance and elevated urea and creatinine levels. 

READ ALSO: ECOWAS Parliament to hold second extraordinary session in Kano

“The patient, also Hepatitis B reactive, was reviewed and referred to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) due to the unavailability of a suitable dialysis machine at Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital (MAWTH).”

The association further clarified that the referral was made because MAWTH lacks the facilities to handle dialysis for patients with Hepatitis B, C, or RVD. 

Of the nine dialysis machines at MAWTH, only seven are operational for patients without these conditions, and the two new machines procured by the state government are not yet functional.

In the midst of this medical controversy, the NAGGMDP has brought to light the ongoing welfare issues faced by medical practitioners in Kano State.

The association claims that the state government has not approved any allowances, contrary to the information in the press release. They highlighted that Kano State doctors are still receiving a hazard allowance of 4,700 naira, significantly less than the 35,000 naira paid by the federal government and other states.

READ ALSO: Garba Duba’s death huge loss to Niger, Nigeria – Umaru-Bago

“Additionally, the state government has not complied with revised CONMESS and the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), with Kano State doctors receiving far less than their counterparts in other states.”

The NAGGMDP has called for the withdrawal of the press release and a public apology to the Kano state doctors within 48 hours to prevent any disruption to industrial harmony. 

They also emphasised their commitment to providing quality healthcare services despite the challenges of poor remuneration, inadequate manpower, and subpar working conditions. 

The association assures the public of their unwavering dedication to professional medical ethics and service to the citizens of Kano State.