On August 27, 2024, the President of the National Executive Council (NEC) of CAMELS, issued a statement expressing his concern about the growing number of Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) associations in Cameroon. He began by appreciating the efforts of his colleagues in addressing important issues within the profession, probably particularly referring to the recent tossle between Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Higher Education. But also highlighted a crucial point:
The proliferation of medical laboratory associations, especially at this time, while acknowledging the freedom of associations in Cameroon, can create an impression before state authorities that we are not fighting for the common good of the profession.
In this article, HELP Foundation explores the disadvantages of having multiple associations, the pressing need for a unified council considering the existing limitations within the Ordre National des Personnels Médico-Sanitaires (ONPMS), and the role that the government, particularly the Ministry of Public Health, can play in facilitating this transition.
The Disadvantages of Multiple Associations
The President's observation draws attention to a significant issue facing laboratory professionals in Cameroon today—the fragmentation of the profession into numerous associations. As he rightly noted, there are currently four legally recognized medical laboratory professional associations in Cameroon: SCB, Ascabiom, Ascateb, and CAMELS. Yet, in just one week, 3-4 new WhatsApp groups have emerged, each claiming to represent a section of the profession.
While the creation of these groups may not seem inherently harmful, the reality is more complex. Having multiple associations with overlapping objectives can lead to several disadvantages:
Diluted Influence: When multiple associations exist, the profession’s voice becomes fragmented. State authorities and policymakers may perceive the profession as lacking a unified direction or purpose. This perception can weaken the influence of laboratory professionals when advocating for their needs and interests.
Confusion Among Stakeholders: The existence of numerous associations can create confusion among healthcare stakeholders, including government bodies, healthcare institutions, and international partners. They may find it challenging to determine which group truly represents the collective interests of laboratory professionals.
Redundant Efforts: With several associations working independently, there is a risk of duplicating efforts, wasting resources, and creating inefficiencies. The energy spent managing these separate entities could be better directed towards common goals that benefit the entire profession.
Compromised Negotiations: As the President stated, “Whenever we stand before state authorities with multiple associations, it gives an impression that we are not fighting for the common good of the profession.” This perception can compromise negotiations and frustrate the advancement of good ideas that individual groups may propose.
Lack of Cohesive Policy Direction: A fragmented representation means there is no single body that can articulate a comprehensive policy agenda on behalf of all laboratory professionals. This weakens the profession’s capacity to influence health policy and regulatory frameworks.
The Advantages of a Unified Council for Laboratory Professionals
Given the disadvantages of fragmentation, there is a compelling case for establishing a single, unified council that truly reflects the aspirations of all laboratory professionals in Cameroon. Here are some advantages:
Stronger Advocacy: A single council would provide a more powerful and united voice to advocate for the profession's interests. It would serve as a central body representing all laboratory professionals, making it easier to negotiate with government bodies, healthcare institutions, and other stakeholders.
Clear Representation: A unified council would eliminate confusion regarding which body represents laboratory professionals. Government authorities, healthcare institutions, and other partners would have a clear point of contact, facilitating more straightforward communication and collaboration.
Resource Optimization: Instead of multiple groups duplicating efforts, a unified council would consolidate resources—financial, human, and intellectual—towards achieving shared objectives. This would lead to more efficient use of resources and better outcomes for the profession.
Enhanced Professional Development: A single council would have the capacity to develop standardized training programs, continuing education opportunities, and certifications. This would help elevate the standard of practice across the profession.
Improved Policy Influence: A unified council would be better positioned to shape health policies and regulatory frameworks, ensuring that the needs and perspectives of laboratory professionals are adequately represented in decision-making processes.
International Recognition: A single, recognized council would improve the profession’s credibility and recognition on the international stage, potentially opening up more opportunities for collaboration and funding.
The Urgent Need for a Unified Council
To realize these advantages, it is crucial that all existing medical laboratory associations in Cameroon come together to form a unified council. This approach has been successfully implemented by other healthcare professions, such as the medical profession, and by non-healthcare professions that have established single councils to represent their members' interests effectively.
The President’s statement, “It is just an observation and at the same time food for thought,” is a call to action. Laboratory professionals must urgently recognize the need for a unified council and work collaboratively to achieve this goal.
Steps Towards Unity
Dialogue and Consensus Building: All associations should engage in dialogue to build consensus on forming a unified council. This would involve discussing shared goals, identifying common challenges, and developing a collective vision for the profession.
Formation of a Transitional Committee: A transitional committee comprising representatives from each association can be formed to guide the process of establishing the new council. This committee would be responsible for drafting the council's constitution, bylaws, and operational framework.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Public Health, healthcare institutions, and international partners, to ensure their support for the unified council.
Advocacy for Government Support: The government, through the Ministry of Public Health, should play a critical role in facilitating this process. It can provide guidance, endorse the formation of the council, and offer the necessary regulatory frameworks to ensure its legal recognition.
The Role of the Government
The government of Cameroon, particularly the Ministry of Public Health, has a crucial role in supporting the formation of a unified council for laboratory professionals. This can be achieved by:
Providing Legal Frameworks: Establishing and enforcing a legal framework that encourages the consolidation of professional associations into a single entity.
Facilitating Dialogue: Acting as a mediator to bring all existing associations to the negotiation table.
Endorsing the Unified Council: Recognizing the unified council as the sole representative body of laboratory professionals in Cameroon.
In conclusion, a unified council representing all laboratory professionals in Cameroon is not just a necessity but an urgent imperative. It would enable the profession to speak with one voice, present a united front before state authorities, and advocate effectively for the common good. As we reflect on the President of CAMELS' message, let us take proactive steps towards this unity, recognizing that our strength lies in our ability to come together for the advancement of our profession and the betterment of healthcare in Cameroon.
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