A friend recently asked in one of our WhatsApp groups, "If you were appointed the CS for Health, what would you do differently, considering that the most recent holder, in our opinion, had done such a poor job?"
This question made me reflect deeply on the critical steps necessary to transform our healthcare system and address the many challenges we face. In last week’s article, I outlined what would be my agenda for reforming health insurance to achieve more universal coverage.
After reflecting on the critical steps necessary to transform our healthcare system, it's clear that beyond reforming NHIF and social health insurance, there are several other key areas that require urgent attention. Here is my vision for strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system through comprehensive reforms.
Imagine a future where every Kenyan, regardless of their location, has access to a well-equipped hospital. This is not a far-fetched dream but a necessary reality we must strive for.
We need to upgrade 50 key healthcare facilities across the country. The Kenya Health Facilities Assessment Survey 2018 reported that 47 per cent of health facilities lacked basic infrastructure such as running water and electricity.
Building new hospitals in underserved regions will improve access to healthcare services. According to the World Bank, rural areas in Kenya have only 1.5 healthcare facilities per 10,000 people, compared to 6.2 facilities per 10,000 in urban areas.
The Kenya Medical Supplies Authority Annual Report 2020 highlighted challenges in maintaining a steady supply of essential medicines, with stockout rates as high as 25 per cent for some key drugs.
We cannot improve healthcare without addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals.
Recruiting and training 10,000 new healthcare workers is essential. The WHO recommends a minimum of 2.3 healthcare workers per 1,000 population, but Kenya currently has only 1.3 per 1,000.
Improving working conditions and increasing compensation for healthcare workers will help motivate and retain talent. A study published in BMC Health Services Research indicated that poor working conditions are a primary reason for job dissatisfaction among healthcare workers.
Shifting focus from reactive to preventive healthcare by investing in public health campaigns, vaccination programmes and initiatives to combat non-communicable diseases is crucial.
Launching nationwide public health campaigns and increasing vaccination coverage to 95 per cent for all childhood diseases are critical. Unicef reports that Kenya's immunisation coverage for key vaccines like measles is currently at 80 per cent, below the recommended 95 per cent.
Implementing programmes to combat non-communicable diseases, including community screening and lifestyle interventions, is essential. The Kenya Stepwise Survey for Non-Communicable Diseases Risk Factors 2015 highlights that 27 per cent of Kenyans have at least one risk factor for NCDs.
Embracing digital health solutions such as telemedicine, electronic health records and mobile health initiatives can revolutionise service delivery.
Rolling out telemedicine services in 20 counties and implementing electronic health records in all major hospitals will improve efficiency and patient care. The WHO emphasises that electronic health records can enhance the quality of care and reduce medical errors.
Formulating and implementing evidence-based policies is essential to address current health challenges.
Engaging stakeholders in the policymaking process and implementing evidence-based health policies will ensure inclusivity and transparency. The Lancet Global Health suggests that evidence-based policies are crucial for improving health outcomes.
Strengthening partnerships with local and international organisations, NGOs and the private sector can mobilise additional resources and expertise.
Establishing public-private partnerships and collaborating with international organisations can support infrastructure development and service delivery. The International Finance Corporation highlights that PPPs can improve healthcare infrastructure and services.
Addressing the oft-neglected area of mental health by increasing funding, creating awareness and integrating mental health services into primary healthcare is imperative.
Increasing funding for mental health services and launching nationwide campaigns to reduce stigma and raise awareness about mental health issues are essential. The WHO reports that mental health services in Kenya receive less than one per cent of the total health budget, which is insufficient to meet the needs.
By focusing on these key areas, we can create a comprehensive healthcare system that not only responds to the immediate needs of Kenyans but also builds a sustainable foundation for the future.
Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, enhancing the workforce, promoting preventive healthcare, leveraging technology, improving health policy, building partnerships and addressing mental health are all critical steps towards a healthier Kenya. Let's work together to make this vision a reality.
As I mentioned last week, I know that it is unlikely that I will be appointed the CS health, but reaching out to whoever will be appointed, kindly consider a few of the points I have raised around healthcare reforms.