Healthcare Workers Striking in Kenya
Kenya has already faced one lengthy and fatal strike earlier this year of doctors and other healthcare workers. The strike lasted for almost two months and was resolved in early May when Kenya and the striking officials agreed to compromises. However, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) is preparing to go on strike in the coming weeks if the Kenyan Ministry of Health fails to take action on the Social Health Authority (SHA) rollout.
The Approaching Potential Strike
Just a few days ago, the Kenyan Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union announced its plan to strike in the next two weeks. This strike is a protest against the challenging rollout of the Social Health Authority, which began on October 1st. The major plan is aiming to create more equitable access to healthcare through comprehensive coverage for Kenyans. However, the new system is replacing the National Hospital Insurance Fund, which has been in place since 1966.
As part of the launch of the Social Health Authority, there has been a great deal of confusion and disorganization. Hospitals that once provided care immediately are now being told to provide care after patients have already visited their primary care doctor and received a referral. Patients are supposed to have access to free primary care, but there is a limit on how much care someone can receive, especially if they are dealing with a chronic illness or preexisting conditions.
Additionally, doctors and other union members have not been promised job security as part of the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund to the new Social Health Authority. Doctors and other health authorities are concerned that the haphazard rollout is going to leave patients at risk. The doctors warned that, if they are not provided with the job security that they desire and reassured about their concerns about the transition to the Social Health Authority, they will begin strike actions in the coming days.
Help Protect Kenyan Access to Healthcare
At the Sollay Kenyan Foundation, we believe that every Kenyan’s life matters. Your life matters, and you matter! Sollay Kenyan Foundation is a non-profit that cares about working with communities throughout Kenya to help children, families, and communities receive equal access to the primary care and focused specialty care that they need to thrive. With your support and the support of our existing donors and volunteers, we hope to help the people of Kenya realize their full potential and thrive. To make a donation and learn more, click here.
