11 Nov 2005

Striking Samoan doctor still pondering reply to government

2:37 pm on 11 November 2005

The Samoa Medical Association is meeting to formulate a release giving information on the current status of the nearly 10-week long doctors strike.

30 doctors have been taking strike action over low pay and working conditions for more than two months.

A commission of inquiry report has been released containing 14 recommendations including that starting salaries for graduate doctors remain the same and doctors salaries be reviewed based on expertise.

It has also supported higher staffing levels, shorter hours for outpatient doctors, and that more doctors be brought in from overseas so local staff can undertake specialist studies or further their qualifications.

Yesterday, the Association met the prime minister to give feedback on the inquiry which the government endorsed.