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Last Updated: Jan 18, 2021 - 6:23:00 PM |
The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) notes the recent announcement of the appointment of a COVID-19 Vaccine Consultative Committee (Committee) by the Prime Minister.
It is disappointing that appointments to the Committee was not inclusive of key stakeholders within the healthcare industry. This shows the lack of respect and regard for Bahamian professionals in general and the local physician community in particular. According to the press release, there are no official representatives from the Medical Association, Consultant Physician Staff Association, Doctors' Union, Nurses' Union, Pharmaceutical Association and/or the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation among others.
Multiple public commentaries and recommendations by our healthcare professionals on appropriate medical interventions have been continuously ignored by the government. We understand that key stakeholders in the healthcare sector were informed about the Committee at the same time of the press release. This is unacceptable and is a public slight against experts who desire to contribute to the decision-making process.
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our nation and our people greatly. It is important that we all work together to fight this virus and contribute towards developing the best solutions for our people. This is a national initiative that impacts all Bahamians with serious consequences if we don’t get it right. We implore the government to rectify this oversight or ill-advised decision as soon as possible.
Omar B. Smith
National Chairman
Democratic National Alliance
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