Peterson Wachira ,The Chairman Kenya Union of Clinical Officers(KUCO) addressing the media in Nakuru recently…Photo/Courtesy.
NAIROBI, Kenya.
Kenyan clinicians have threatened to strike over what they describe as discriminatory practices in a newly implemented health insurance plan.
The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) said the plan excludes its members as service providers, a move they argue undermines their role in the healthcare system.
“The exclusion of clinicians from the insurance scheme jeopardizes the livelihoods of our members and reduces access to quality healthcare for millions of Kenyans,” KUCO said in a statement, adding that clinical officers are integral to the country’s healthcare delivery system and should not be sidelined.
The strike threat comes a day after the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) called on intern doctors to stop working until their welfare and training concerns are addressed.
The unrest highlights growing discontent in Kenya’s healthcare sector as professionals push for better working conditions and recognition.
The scarcity of specialized healthcare providers in Kenya remains a critical issue, with only five registered dermatologists serving a population of more than 50 million.
KUCO emphasized that excluding clinical officers from the insurance plan worsens the strain on the country’s healthcare system by sidelining professionals who could help fill critical gaps in service delivery.
KUCO has urged the government and stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve the standoff and prevent a crisis that could paralyze the healthcare system.
The impending strike underscores the urgent need for reforms to ensure healthcare workers are adequately supported, officials said.
The standoff comes at a time when Kenya’s healthcare sector is already grappling with limited resources and increasing demand for services.
As the situation develops, Kenyans are hopeful a solution can be reached to address the welfare of healthcare workers and the nation’s pressing health needs.
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