New pay framework under fire as healthcare workers flag gaps and lost benefits

The Maldives Health Professionals Union has formally engaged the National Pay Commission to address concerns raised by healthcare workers over the implementation of the new pay framework.

According to the Union, although administrative and support staff within the health sector, including federation members, were transitioned to the state’s new pay framework on 1 November 2025, multiple issues have emerged. These concerns, along with proposed solutions, were submitted to the National Pay Commission in a letter dated 4 January 2026.

One of the key issues identified is that support staff in the health sector have yet to receive any experience-based promotions. Despite long years of service, these employees were placed at Rank 1 under the new framework without recognition of their seniority. As a result, the union has proposed that staff who meet the experience criteria for Rank 2 be reclassified accordingly.

The union has also called for the introduction of a night shift allowance for support staff. It highlighted that, similar to technical professionals, support staff are required to perform night duties and should be compensated for this work.

In addition to this, the Maldives Health Professionals Union noted that support staff frequently work double shifts. In this regard, the union has urged the commission to ensure that employees are fairly compensated or provided with allowances when their working hours exceed the standard eight-hour shift.

Despite the salary increases introduced under the new pay harmonization policy, many employees report that they are not receiving the intended benefits.

Workers have stated that changes to the overtime policy have resulted in reduced take-home pay compared to previous levels.

Both educators and healthcare workers have voiced dissatisfaction, noting that they are being required to work additional hours without receiving corresponding overtime compensation.