The Minister of Health and Social Services, Esperance Luvindao, said the ministry is currently engaging with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the implementation of the arbitration award, which recognises medical interns as full employees, is carried out lawfully and sustainably.
Dr. Luvindao was responding to LPM MP Eneas Emvula's question with regard to ongoing concerns that, despite the award being implemented in 2023, some medical interns continue to feel sidelined from full employment benefits.
Minister Luvindao, however, emphasised that under her leadership, interns are not currently facing such exclusion.
She said the ministry is developing a proposal to introduce fixed overtime payments for medical interns.
"Our stance is that medical officer interns are entitled to fair compensation, including overtime accrued during their service. In light of this, the ministry is actively engaging with relevant stakeholders, including the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service Commission, to develop a proposed framework for the payment of fixed overtime."
Dr. Luvindao also acknowledged the emotional, psychological and physical strain that these prolonged processes may have placed on the affected interns.
She stressed that the delays are not due to reluctance or unwillingness on the part of the ministry, but rather a result of the need to carefully navigate the legal and administrative frameworks involved.
"The ministry takes seriously its duty of care toward all healthcare workers. In light of this, the ministry is committed to enhancing access to psychological support services, including counselling for all affected personnel through the existing Employee Wellness Programme, assessing options for medical support and treatment where appropriate for interns facing documental health issues arising from work-related stress."
She said her ministry is committed to ensuring a safe, respectful and supportive working environment for all healthcare workers and welcomes continued dialogue on measures to improve the mental and physical health outcomes of its personnel.