The Hospital Management Board (HMB) of Abia State recently held an orientation seminar for newly appointed temporary nurses, medical laboratory scientists, and pharmacists.
The group of 72 professionals, including nurses, medical laboratory scientists, and pharmacists, was selected after rigorous interviews, which encompassed computer-based tests and oral assessments. Their temporary roles in the Abia State civil service serve as a probationary period for potential permanent employment.
Addressing the recruits at the Ministry of Health’s conference hall in Umuahia, Dr. Odochi Azubuike, Chief Executive Officer of HMB, emphasized their critical responsibilities and urged them to fully commit to their roles, highlighting that their employment is performance-based, in line with the policies of the Alex Otti administration.
Delivering a lecture on performance standards, Mrs. Essien Abasi Emem, Secretary of the National Association of Nurses, Abia State, stressed the importance of professionalism and equitable patient care, encouraging continuous learning to keep pace with evolving healthcare practices.
Mrs. Ngozi Ucheoma Okafor, Director of Administration at the Ministry of Health, advised the new employees on work ethics and office procedures, urging them to maintain integrity and empathy towards patients.
She highlighted the state’s recent healthcare advancements under Governor Alex Otti, including hospital refurbishments and free clinic programs.
In a brief speech, Mrs. Onu Chinyere, Director of Nursing at HMB, alongside other departmental heads, congratulated the new recruits on their successful interviews, noting the significance of the training, the first of its kind since 2018, and expressed gratitude to the Governor for the opportunity.
The event underscored the importance of continuous professional development in the health sector, as stated in a release by HMB’s Public Relations Officers, Chinasa Timothy and Sandra Okoronkwo.
