The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, has called on Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to facilitate the immediate release of the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) and settle outstanding minimum wage arrears owed to resident doctors and other healthcare workers in the state.
The appeal was made amid growing concerns over the welfare of medical personnel and the need to sustain quality healthcare delivery across Oyo State.
According to the association, the prompt disbursement of the training fund is crucial to the professional development of resident doctors, who rely on the support to undertake mandatory training, examinations, and other educational requirements necessary for their career progression.
The doctors noted that delays in releasing the fund have placed additional financial burdens on resident physicians, many of whom are required to personally cover the costs associated with their training programmes.
The association also expressed concern over the outstanding minimum wage arrears owed to healthcare workers, stressing that the prolonged delay in payment has adversely affected the morale and welfare of medical professionals serving in public health institutions.
The resident doctors appealed to Governor Makinde to intervene and ensure that all outstanding obligations are settled without further delay, describing the move as necessary to maintain industrial harmony and enhance the efficiency of healthcare services in the state.
They emphasized that investing in the welfare and professional growth of healthcare workers would ultimately translate into improved patient care and better health outcomes for residents of Oyo State.
The association further reiterated its commitment to providing quality healthcare services while expressing optimism that the state government would respond positively to its demands.