Medics' association opposed to GP Health's move to reduce overtime contracts for doctors

JOHANNESBURG - South African Medical Association Trade Union (SAMATU)  has opposed amendments by the Gauteng Health Department aimed at reducing overtime contracts for doctors in Gauteng.

Last year, the provincial Department of Health was accused of introducing a new system of overtime approvals, threatening to cut the added hours of doctors in public hospitals.

The union claims the proposal wants to slash the salaries of doctors and amend their employment contracts without due process or consultation

SAMATU has called on all doctors who stand to be affected by the changes to vehemently reject the proposal.

SAMATU's general secretary, Cedric Sihlangu, says reducing the overtime of doctors and compensation risks exacerbates the challenges faced by an already overburdened system.

"The Department of Health is attempting to unilaterally cut out doctors from working overtime and leaving junior doctors and trainees unsupervised after hours. This is irresponsible and will endanger the lives of patients."