In a bid to protect healthcare professionals from harassment and abuse, the Cameroonian government has introduced a new rule that will see patients who perpetrate such acts face legal sanctions.
This announcement was made Public by the Public Health Minister, Dr. Manaouda Malachie, during a press conference in Yaoundé on November 22nd.
The decision to implement this new rule comes amidst growing concerns about the increasing number of cases involving patients or their relatives harassing or abusing healthcare workers in health facilities.
“ It is unacceptable to have patients harassing health care professionals in health facilities. We can no longer accept that, and we will henceforth take legal action against such patients,” Dr. Manaouda warned.
To address this issue, the Ministry of Public Health is working on establishing a patient-health professional charter that will guide the conduct of both parties in health facilities.
This charter aims to promote mutual respect and understanding between patients and healthcare professionals.
The Quest for Improved Health Services in Cameroon
The introduction of this new rule is part of a broader effort by the Cameroonian government to improve health services in the country. According to Dr. Manaouda, improving health services is one of the major reforms on the Ministry of Public Health’s agenda for 2025.
To achieve this goal, the Ministry of Public Health organized an annual conference of central and devolved services, which brought together health experts from across the country. The conference provided a platform for experts to evaluate the performance of health structures and chart a course for improved health services in Cameroon.
Dr. Manaouda stressed the importance of aligning priorities with the national Development Strategy for 2020-2030 (SND30). He also emphasized the need for accountability and professionalism in the healthcare sector, warning that cases of indiscipline, unethical, or unprofessional behavior will not be tolerated.
By introducing legal sanctions against patients who abuse healthcare workers and working to improve health services, the Cameroonian government is taking significant steps towards protecting healthcare professionals and promoting better healthcare outcomes for its citizens.
Kathy Neba Sina
