Corporate Social Responsibility is increasingly recognized as a fundamental aspect of modern business practices, particularly within sectors that directly impact the wellbeing of the communities. In this regard, for civil servants, the interplay between CRS and access to healthcare service has significant implications for enhancing industriousness, productivity and overall job satisfaction. In the realm of health services, CSR can manifest in various forms, including offering health and wellness programs, ensuring access to quality healthcare, fostering a supportive workplace environment, and participating in community health initiatives.
As indicated by Berhane Gebremedehen (MD), Senior Internist at Redat Healthcare, whom The Ethiopian Herald interviewed recently while providing healthcare service to Ethiopian Press Agency workers, providing healthcare service is a moral responsibility to every health center.
According to him, it is also important to every citizen to know about his/health status. An institution such as EPA has workers who are industrious and carry out their responsibilities committedly that may put pressure on their health. In this regard, having proper healthcare service has a significant role for individuals working at the Agency to the organization they are working and to the country as a whole. This is for the reason that every individual`s health has a direct or indirect implication to the Agency as well as to the economy of the country. Creating a healthy working environment and healthy workers enables every institution to be productive and add more income to that particular organization.
Berhane also said that the experience of EPA can be a model to other institutions of the society. The old culture of getting healthcare treatment when the health situation of an individual is critical is now being replaced by early treatments. This avoids health related complications and additional economic burden. It also has a significant role in fighting against those Non Communicable Diseases which are killing people silently these days. Berehane also said that these Non Communicable Diseases are claiming the life of several people. The best remedy to fight such diseases is through health screening and counseling services. Early disease detection and prevention are necessary steps towards avoiding health related complications.
Regarding the role of Corporate Social responsibility (CSR), Berehane emphasized that it is the fundamental duty of every healthcare center to provide essential services to the community. In this regard, Redat Healthcare is exemplary in discharging its responsibilities, setting a standard for other institutions to follow. He stated that whenever a new health institute is established in the country, its primary mission should be to save lives, underscoring that healthcare should extend beyond mere profit-making.
Berehane further articulated that the moral responsibilities of healthcare providers should be woven into the fabric of their operations. This notion is not only vital for the ethical framework of healthcare but also essential for fostering trust within the communities they serve. Redat Healthcare embodies this principle, integrating its mission and goals with a commitment to social responsibility.
If every health institute in Ethiopia adopts this approach and prioritizes CSR, the potential impact on public health could be transformative. By focusing on delivering quality healthcare while actively engaging in community welfare, these institutions can significantly contribute to saving lives. Berehane called on all healthcare providers to embrace this vision, noting that a collective effort in upholding social responsibilities could lead to improved health outcomes across the nation.
Health service providers can offer wellness programs, including regular health screenings, fitness initiatives, and health education workshops. These programs empower civil servants to take charge of their health, promoting physical well-being and reducing absenteeism.Speaking to EP, Redat Healthcare CEO Misgana Solomon emphasized the organization’s commitment to early disease detection and preventing unnecessary health complications. “Our program provides free screenings for blood pressure, diabetes, breast cancer, and cholesterol levels among EPA staff. This initiative aligns with our mission to promote early disease detection and prevent avoidable health issues.” EPA Multidisciplinary Affairs Department Head Birhane Solomon on her part highlighted the importance of these screenings for employee well-being. “Annual screenings and check-ups are critical for preventing health crises. We are grateful to Redat Healthcare for offering this valuable service, which plays a vital role in early detection and treatment, benefiting both our staff and the broader community,”
The correlation between employee health and productivity is well-documented. Healthy civil servants are more efficient, deliver quality services, and contribute positively to the community.
What is more, as indicated by Dr. Berhane and other members of EPA, when corporations and health service providers adopt CSR strategies that prioritize the health and well-being of civil servants, they not only fulfill their ethical obligations but also recognize the intrinsic link between employee health and organizational performance.
Civil servants often face unique challenges, including high workloads, public scrutiny, and the pressure of serving the community. These factors can lead to stress, burnout, and a decrease in productivity. By implementing CSR initiatives focused on health services, organizations can play a pivotal role in mitigating these challenges.
Integrating CSR into the health services provided to civil servants fosters a culture of responsibility within public sector organizations. When employees feel valued and supported through comprehensive health initiatives, they are more likely to exhibit increased commitment and motivation in their roles.
Moreover, a robust CSR policy can enhance the public perception of civil service organizations. When communities see that their civil servants are supported by employers who care about their health, it fosters trust and confidence in public institutions. This positive perception can lead to increased collaboration and support from the wider community, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of civil servant initiatives.
In conclusion, the integration of corporate social responsibility within the healthcare sector is not merely an ethical obligation; it is a strategic imperative that can ultimately enhance the quality of life for countless individuals. By prioritizing the health and well-being of the community, healthcare institutions can fulfill their true mission and create a healthier, more equitable society for all.
BY LEULSEGED WORKU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 8 OCTOBER 2024
