By Own Correspondent
Government has granted public health care workers flexible working hours effective from the 18th of May.
In the new Flexi hour working system, health care workers will work for one week and take two weeks off work.
This comes as a measure to combat the spread of COVID 19 and minimise the frontline workers exposure to risk.
Due to the nature of their jobs and proximity to COVID 19 patients health care workers are at risk of contracting coronavirus.
In a letter addressed to all Provincial Medical Directors and Chief Executive Officers, Permanent Secretary for Health and Child Care ministry, Agnes Mahomva said the Flexi hour’s system could, however, be changed if necessary.
“All MDs and CEO’s are advised that with effect from the 18th of May 2020 all health workers should utilise the system outlined below which will minimize the risk of exposure from COV1D-19.
“Health workers should, therefore, report for duty for one (1) week continuously and take two (2) weeks off so as to minimise exposure to risk.
“All administrators are therefore instructed to put the necessary plans in place to ensure the new system is implemented swiftly and efficiently.
“While you finalise the new working arrangements the health workers will maintain the flexible working hours during the period 11th to 17th of May 2020 to enable the adjustment and adoption of the new working conditions.
“This letter supersedes any previous communication prior to this matter. Please note however that these conditions can be changed at any time depending on the situation,” reads part of the letter.
Meanwhile, Mahomva has been promoted to the newly created post of Chief Coordinator, National Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Office of the President and Cabinet.
