Visionary Reports

As Cameroon navigates the future of healthcare, the commitment to nurturing medical talent and fostering innovation is vital for transforming the nation’s medical landscape and ensuring the well-being of its citizens.

The ordinary general assembly of the Cameroon Medical Council that took place on December 18 in Douala, was placed under the theme “Strengthening Medical Talents and Innovations.” The assembly brought together healthcare professionals to address critical issues facing the medical community, particularly the alarming rise in unemployment among medical doctors. Many have felt compelled to seek opportunities abroad, driven by a lack of local employment prospects.During the assembly, several key initiatives were launched to support healthcare providers. Among these was the establishment of a mutual fund aimed at assisting doctors in their retirement years, offering them additional financial security. In addition, an operations manual was adopted to standardize and enhance the administrative practices of the medical council, further professionalizing the sector.The assembly also featured a ceremony recognizing esteemed doctors with over 50 years of service, honoring their significant contributions to the medical field. The Dr. Ben Fissell Award was introduced to commemorate a dedicated colleague who passed away while serving in the Northern Region, ensuring that future meritorious doctors receive recognition for their hard work.The assembly emphasized the essential role of civil responsibility insurance for medical practitioners to ensure a safe working environment.

In his opening remarks, the Secretary General of the Littoral Governor’s Office, Aboubakary Tchiounto, underscored the significance of public health and the need for collaboration among all stakeholders to advance the healthcare system.He noted that the government is working on the remuneration in working conditions. He assured everyone of government’s commitment to tackle these grievances at the national level and underscored the urgency of revising salary structures to improve workforce satisfaction and the effectiveness of patient care.He called for collective action, emphasizing the need for general mobilization not just within Cameroon, but across the entire sub-region. He reminded all that the health of the population is directly linked to the welfare of healthcare professionals, suggesting that as these professionals thrive, so will the population they serve.The Secretary General also acknowledged the dedication of those involved in training initiatives, recognizing their essential role in shaping the next generation of healthcare providers.On his part, the President of the Cameroon Medical Council Dr. Fonkoua Rodolphe reiterated the progress made in the 2025 fiscal year, reaffirming the council’s commitment to digitalization, legal finalization of the physicians’ mutual insurance fund, and international engagement. “The council has initiated discussions with the Ministry of Higher Education to recognize diploma equivalencies within the CAMES zone, encouraging stronger integration of academic and practical medical training” he mentioned.The assembly concluded with a call for a unified approach to restore the dignity of the medical profession. Medical practitioners were urged to take concerted action to combat issues such as illegal medical practices, improve salaries and working conditions, and embrace the integration of digital technology in healthcare practices.Participants were also urged to stay committed to making Cameroon a leading destination for medical tourism in the Central African sub-region.The assembly did not only highlight the challenges faced by the medical community but also presented a clear roadmap for addressing these issues through innovation, collaboration, and enhanced support for healthcare professionals.

By Gina Esong