By Latiifah Amusan
Dr. Umoh Michael, a dedicated medical house officer serving at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, has tragically passed away.
According to reports, the young doctor, described as “overworked,” collapsed during a church service and could not be revived.
Dr. Michael had been tirelessly serving in the Neurosurgery unit of the federal government-owned health facility, working for an exhausting three-day stretch performing surgeries.
The demanding nature of his duties, coupled with a shortage of medical doctors, left him on call for a grueling 72 hours without a break.
He had barely found time to rest or sleep, often returning home around 3 a.m. after performing surgeries and other essential tasks.
One of his fellow house officers shared the struggles they face, including bullying from senior colleagues, stressful call hours without breaks, and a lack of essential amenities such as call food and suitable accommodation.
In response to this tragic loss and the dire working conditions they endure, Dr. Michael’s colleagues have decided to take action.
They have declared a 48-hour strike set to commence on Wednesday, September 20, 2023.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Medical Officer of LUTH, they expressed their deep grief and called for a comprehensive review of the house officers’ duty schedules across all units.
They aim to ensure adequate rest and prevent the untimely demise of another house officer.
