RMC interns go on work abstention

RAJSHAHI, Oct 21: Interns at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH) went on a a 24-hour work abstention on Wednesday morning, pressing for a five-point demand including resolving shortages of medical supplies and ensuring their security.

Dr Mushfiqur Rahman, general secretary of the hospital’s Intern Doctors Society, said the interns started the work abstention at 8am.

He said the hospital’s inpatient wards are facing an acute shortage of essential medicines and medical equipment, while unrestricted entry of patients’ attendants and negligence by Ansar members on duty are frequently exposing intern doctors to unwanted situation and collective threats.

The closure of the hospital’s observation room and casualty department has also increased pressure on inpatient wards, forcing doctors to struggle to provide treatment with limited manpower and medical supplies, he added.

Dr Mushfiqur said the hospital authorities gave assurances several times to address the problems but have taken no effective steps, leaving the interns with no option but to go on the work abstention.�"UNB