Govt decision to rescind ban on private practice hailed
By NATION REPORTER THE Green Party has commended government for withdrawing the circular which banned medical staff from doing part time jobs in private health institutions.
Party leader Peter Sinkamba said it was prudent to allow workers to do jobs in private institutions in their free time.
Mr Sinkamba told the Daily Nation in Kitwe that the high cost of living has led many workers to take on second jobs to make ends meet and help maintain a modest standard of living.
According to Mr Sinkamba, the low wages have had a serious impact on disposal income for most government workers which in turn forced many government workers to seek additional income.
"The decision by Government to reverse the ban will definitely deter massive exodus of medical staff for greener pastures abroad," Mr Sinkamba said.
Mr Sinkamba said doing part time jobs by government health practitioners in private institute was a positive move in enhancing their living standards.
The Green Party leader appealed to the government to appreciate the art of cost-benefit analysis before coming up with policy decisions.
Last week, government issued a circular banning all medical practitioners from doing extra work in private institutions. The move was aimed at curbing absenteeism and unethical practices.
However, Health Minister Chitalu Chilufya rescinded the decision to allow for more consultation.