KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Medical Doctors’ Association (JMDA) says it is supporting government medical consultants who have reportedly initiated an islandwide sickout, citing a “lacklustre response” from the Government concerning ongoing wage disputes and unresolved matters stemming from the recent compensation restructuring exercise.

It is not yet clear what impact this sickout will have on the operations of hospitals and clinics.

“The voices of our devoted colleagues in the AGMC (Association of Government Medical Consultants) must be heard as they continue to serve our nation with steadfast commitment, even in the face of broken and unkept promises. The fact that these medical professionals have not received their due retroactive payments despite prior guarantees is extremely disquieting,” the JMDA said in a statement on Monday.

It continued, “The situation is particularly worrisome in light of the fact that other groups have received full payment. This inequity in treatment is intolerable and needs to be immediately resolved. The voices of our AGMC colleagues must be heard as they have continued to serve our nation with unwavering dedication.”

The association is calling on the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the Ministry of Finance and Public Service, the Ministry of Health and Wellness, and all other pertinent authorities to conclude discussions with the medical consultants on the matter.

“All parties involved must adhere to their commitments and cooperate in order to find an immediate remedy to these problems. The quality of care provided to all Jamaican citizens is inextricably linked to the well-being of our healthcare workforce, so treating us fairly must be a primary concern for the government. Once again, we support our colleagues in their struggle for justice and respect. Even in the face of the government’s disingenuity, their dedication to patient care is admirable. They, like us, should be given what we are owed,” the JMDA said.