Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha has appealed to doctors to remain patient regarding delayed intern postings as the Ministry works towards finding a lasting solution.
Nakhumicha’s statement came a day after the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) issued a seven-day strike notice.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, Nakhumicha emphasized that the ongoing discussions with union officials aimed at resolving the issue at hand.
The CS stressed the importance of dialogue, highlighting that a strike would not provide a solution.
“I call unto the union to allow a discussion and a conversation to take place, there are many things that we need to discuss,” she said.
“A strike will not resolve anything, but a solution will only be found when we sit at the table and discuss as whole stakeholders.”
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Furthermore, Nakhumicha expressed confidence in reaching a solution that involves the active participation of all stakeholders including the Ministry of Education, County government, ministry of Labor and Public Service Commission.
In her plea to the union, Nakhumicha assured doctors that efforts are underway to address their concerns stating that health workers are one of the important pillars of Universal Health coverage.
“There is no way I or the ministry can ignore the health workers. We are going to do what we can do so that we ensure that we have enough sufficient and adequate doctors including the interns to be able to provide universal health coverage,” the CS said.
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Nakhumicha Urges Doctors to have Patience
The CS urged the union to give the ministry time to resolve the matter and promised to communicate updates before the expiration of the ultimatum.
“I know they are anxious about the posting. Once we resolve the issues and bring everyone at the table, we will be able to communicate with them before the time that they have given us,” Nakhumicha said.
Additionally, Cabinet Secretary shed light on the complexities involved in intern postings, mentioning factors such as funding constraints and the availability of trainers for intern supervision.
Nakhumicha underscored the significance of internship centers meeting specific requirements, including the presence of medical officers, specialists, equipment, and health commodities for medical interns.
She also mentioned that the meetings held between union officials and Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni will help to break the deadlock and find a way forward.
