27 health workers that have so far tested positive for Coronavirus disease should be compensated, the Uganda Medical Association has said.
According to Dr Richard Idro the President of the association, the association has written to the permanent secretaries in the Ministry of Health and that of Public Service insisting on having a pot to cater for the welfare of health workers, who are undergoing treatment.
The 27 health workers, from Lira and Mulago hospitals, among others, got infected in the line of duty and are now admitted to Entebbe General Hospital.
Dr Diana Atwiine the Health Ministry Permanent Secretary however, said there’s no new avenue for compensation that will be created, adding that government will continue paying their monthly salary and cater for their families until they recover.
Dr Diana didn’t specify what kind of support they are extending to the families.
Idro says they recently appealed to President Museveni to have them represented on the COVID-19 National Taskforce which request was granted and they have since nominated occupational safety expert Dr Deogratious Sekimpi for this slot, but although he is yet receive his appointment letter.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health together with the Ministry of Gender, Labor and Social Development have come up with guidelines for occupational safety and health guidelines which will specify exact interventions and compensations one can get in case they get infected in line of duty.
