Over 7,000 health professionals on strike today

Professionals of Supplementary Medical Service across the country have decided to stage a 24-hour token strike commencing from 8 a.m. today (24).

Accordingly, the Joint Force of Supplementary Medical Services, representing 7,000 officers from five professional categories, has taken this action to address a series of pressing concerns outlined in the seven demands including persistent delays in the revision of recruitment procedures and the issuance of circulars pertaining to grade promotions, among other issues.

The strike action will involve the participation of five professional associations, namely the Radiologic Technologists Professionals, Laboratory Scientist Professionals, Pharmacist Professionals, Physiotherapy Professionals, and Occupational Therapy Professionals.

According to health trade unions, the strike action, however, will exclude certain critical institutions, including cancer institutes, maternal and child hospitals, and the Central Blood Bank. Officers at these establishments have willingly volunteered to continue providing their services uninterrupted.

In addition, a team of dedicated volunteers has been assembled to ensure that life-saving services are maintained during the strike at hospitals affected by the walkout.

Nonetheless, trade unions warn that any interference with the officers engaged in voluntary service will result in their immediate removal from such duties. (Sheain Fernandopulle)