THERE is a problem that needs addressing and which has been neglected due to various human sentiments and inability bordering on the boundaries of human rights violation. I am the pharmacist attached to the Enterprise Health Centre and I am doing my best to perform a duty that was given to me. Situations are however growing to necessitate complaints. I have already shared my uneasiness with many senior staff of the Ministry of Health but they have chosen to respond in their own fitting way.

My letter, however is not to attack those who are also trying to help but an effort to attract attention which might accelerate positive changes.

When I go to work, for instance, there are only female patients, many collecting medicines for males who are not there. I often find myself alone in a department of females. When there are males, they crowd at the doctor’s side. The crowd of women around my side becomes abusive and argumentative repeatedly.

On top of it all, there is no receptionist to fill up the prescription and the volunteer who is usually there cannot write properly.

There were fights in the health centre among the patients. On one occasion the ‘black clothes police’ came. Other patients have complained about lack of security but nothing has happened.

The health centre needs to be serviced with staff, repairs and rules. People are not dressing properly including the staff and sometimes people come for medicine two-three times weekly which can normally arouse suspicion.

The medicines that are mostly used are not always supplied in full by the pharmacy bond. There should be clinics arranged on specific days to lessen the daily crowd. I was told by a young man in the regional health services that we should see a maximum number of patients. Is this a proper response or was given in favour to win a majority?

If I attempt to correct a situation by speaking firmly or showing uneasiness, it is taken personally and goes to various places to irritate myself and family. What kind of leadership is there in the Ministry and are these people earning their money justly, is my question. However the majority is not in my favour so it is natural that an assortment of replies may be given to proceed with their schemes. I was even advised to seek employment somewhere else, but I believe that the problems need to be solved rather than running away from them.

The Stabroek News carried an article already and I was sent to Enterprise but does this declare the end of my career because of my positive outlook in contrast to negativity? It shows immaturity and lack of commitment which may be related to vested interests.

Another problem which seems related is the police intrusion. I am constantly stopped by traffic police on my way to or from work.