Most FS doctors on duty
2009-06-30 14:52
Bloemfontein - Most state doctors in the Free State seem to be on duty on Tuesday at hospitals as wage talks to settle the impasse between government and doctors continue.
At the National Hospital in Bloemfontein five doctors, some dentists and pharmacists did not arrive at work on Tuesday.
A small group of medical practitioners met outside the hospital in the morning to discuss the current wage dispute. They planned a further meeting during the afternoon.
At Pelonomi Regional Hospital in Heidedal only one doctor in the surgical department did not arrive at work.
Chief executive officer of the Pelonomi Hospital, Patrick Tfibolane, said they were monitoring the situation on an hourly basis.
"The situation might charge as the day progresses," he said.
At the Manapo Hospital in Phuthadijhaba in Qwaqwa all doctors were on duty.
June 30 was the deadline for labour and the government to agree on the implementation of the occupation specific dispensation.
Although doctors across the country downed tools in many other provinces last week, those in the Free State did not take part.
- SAPA