Multiple Sectors Collaborate to Resolve Critical Concerns
Cabinet Secretary for Health, Nakhumicha S. Wafula, along with Principal Secretaries Harry Kimtai and Mary Muthoni, appeared before the Standing Committee on Health on Friday to address pressing concerns surrounding the management and utilization of resources at the Kenya University Referral Teaching and Research Hospital by medical students from Kenyatta University.
Timely Student Training at Stake
During the proceedings, CS Nakhumicha highlighted several significant issues that demanded immediate attention. The matter at hand involves multiple sectors, including the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Interior.
To address these concerns, a high-level committee has been actively working. However, the CS expressed concern over potential delays in implementing necessary actions due to prolonged deliberations among the various stakeholders.
Directives for Accreditation Process
To ensure timely student training, the Cabinet Secretary issued directives to the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) and the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK).
These directives specifically instructed them to expedite the hospital’s accreditation process, focusing solely on preparing the hospital for student training. The ultimate aim is to enable the hospital to commence training within the next three months.
Hospital’s Readiness and Accreditation Report
The hospital’s readiness to accommodate students largely depends on the forthcoming accreditation report. A preliminary report is already available, and based on its findings, the hospital is expected to initiate student training as planned within the stipulated three months.
However, the report may highlight limitations concerning the initial number of students the hospital can accommodate, taking into account factors such as bed capacity and logistical considerations.
Broader Effort to Enhance Healthcare Services
In a broader effort to improve healthcare services across the country, the Ministry of Health is conducting an extensive assessment of all health facilities. The primary objective of this assessment is to identify existing gaps in the healthcare system.
Within the next two months, upon completing the assessment, the authorities will take appropriate measures based on the findings. These measures will effectively address the identified shortcomings and work towards enhancing the overall healthcare system.
Government’s Commitment to Resolving Issues
CS Nakhumicha assured the committee that the government fully commits to resolving the issues at the Kenya University Referral Teaching and Research Hospital and enhancing the overall quality of healthcare services nationwide.
The government aims to ensure a seamless and effective training environment for medical students, contributing to the advancement of healthcare in Kenya.
Sources: THX News & Ministry of Health, Kenya.
