Hospital Life and the Birth of MHOA

Forum

By Dr Mala Modun-Bissessur

In the late 1970s, we first met Dr. G at the Civil Hospital (now known as Dr. AG Jeetoo Hospital) in Port-Louis, where he was already serving. We were a small group of public medical practitioners responsible for Health Region 1, covering the entire Port-Louis district, most of Black River, parts of Plaines Wilhems, Moka, and Pamplemousses. This was one of the largest catchment areas for health services, requiring 24/7 coverage throughout the year under challenging conditions.

As our senior, Dr. G took it upon himself to ensure our well-being. During emergencies, up to seven of us might be on duty simultaneously—often juggling responsibilities between the casualty department, wards, and the operating theatre. Weekend shifts, from Saturday morning to Monday afternoon, were especially gruelling, impacting our family and social lives. We frequently faced unruly patients, demanding relatives, and sometimes overzealous colleagues.

Dr. G organized our shifts to ensure that everyone on duty had some time for meals and rest. He genuinely cared for us, especially the female doctors, and was concerned about the negative effects of prolonged absences on our children. Despite our repeated requests for improvements to the responsible officers on-site, responses were slow and often deferred with the cliché: “The matter has been referred to the Ministry, awaiting directives…”

Frustrated by the lack of progress, Dr. G took matters into his own hands. He requested an appointment with the relevant authorities, but after receiving no timely communication, he expressed his frustration with his characteristic firmness: “You should know that I am not afraid of the Ministry. If necessary, I will speak forcefully, slam my fist on the table, and even break chairs if needed. I am not afraid of them…”

Imagining this scenario, we humorously pictured the mild-mannered head of the Medical Unit at the Emmanuel Anquetil Building, trying to escape the wrath of an impassioned junior medic, while Dr. G, our bold negotiator, faced potential police custody. This was an unlikely and amusing thought, but we remained cautious about appearing too supportive of the authorities and tolerating their injustices.

However, Dr. G’s message was clear. He shifted his approach, sought support from doctors in other hospitals, and believed in the principle of “L’Union fait la Force.” This led to the establishment of a union for public general practitioners. A few months later, the Medical and Health Officers Association (MHOA) was founded. Dr. G was soon promoted and transferred to the medico-legal department, but he maintained close ties with his colleagues at the Civil Hospital on an understanding basis.

Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 30 August 2024