Over 100 health workers have been fired countrywide due to absenteeism and misconduct

Over 100 health workers have been fired countrywide due to absenteeism and misconduct.

Ministry of Health Permanent secretary Kennedy Malama disclosed this to ZANIS when he toured various health institutions in Southern Province.

Dr Malama said it has been discovered that some health workers are going to further their studies without following the correct procedure, as outlined in their conditions of service.

“We need sanity in the health sector and we are not going to tolerate misconduct, absenteeism and none responsiveness when on duty, because we are civil servants employed to provide a service to the people,” Dr Malama said.

ZANIS reports that the Permanent Secretary disclosed this at Monze Mission Hospital during an address to health workers.

He said Lusaka, Southern and Northern Provinces are the main regions where health workers are fond of absconding from work.

He said government will not accept the tendencies of health workers living their duties without approval from the relevant authority.

“We need to understand that we chose this career by ourselves. We were not forced and we need to ensure that we work in line with government policies,” Dr Malama said.

The PS further called on health workers to exercise professionalism when providing services to patients.

Dr Malama also revealed that the ministry is aware of the various challenges that are faced in the health sector but providing quality health care services should be prioritised.