Kericho Governor Dr. Eric Mutai has vowed to improve healthcare workers’ conditions by among other actions addressing the prevailing shortage of medical staff in the county.
Governor Mutai expressed deep concern over doctors’ mental health struggles caused by overwork, low pay, and lack of insurance. “We have heard some doctors lose their minds and fall into depression due to lack of insurance, insufficient pay, and overworking. Yet, when they attend village functions, people still say, ‘Karibu Daktari,” he remarked.
Speaking during the confirmation of 556 healthcare workers to permanent and pensionable terms at Kiprugut Chumo Stadium Monday, Dr. Mutai commended their resilience, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and assured them that their sacrifices would no longer go unrecognized.
“You have my respect, and support. From now on, you will only work the hours assigned to you. In return, I ask that you be available for the people of Kericho with an end to non-responsiveness and careless handling of patients,” Dr Mutai stated.
To address the healthcare workers’ shortage, the county government has announced 136 new job vacancies aimed at strengthening service delivery in public hospitals across Ainamoi, Soin-Sigowet, Belgut, Kipkelion East, Kipkelion West, and Bureti sub-counties.
Governor Mutai also committed to deploying at least two doctors per dispensary and increasing medical supplies to improve healthcare access and quality as he directed the Health CEC Dr. David Ekwam to enhance supervision.
Additionally, the Governor encouraged healthcare workers to secure their financial future by joining Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) and enrolling with the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme, dismissing those opposing it.
“They are rejecting SHA because they want to continue misusing NHIF funds for personal gain,” he declared.
On his part Dr. Ekwam assured the 236 healthcare workers still on contract that they, too, would be confirmed soon and also announced the upcoming launch of a Sh328 million cancer center, which will create job opportunities for young healthcare professionals in Kericho and beyond.
“For those whose careers were held back due to contract terms, we inform you that soon, you will be free to further your studies and return for better opportunities,” the health CECM said.
One of the confirmed healthcare workers, Hillary Cheruiyot, expressed gratitude for the permanent employment terms, calling it a long-awaited victory.
“Thank you, Governor Dr. Eric Mutai, for making this a reality. It is not just our personal victory but also a recognition of our contribution to the community,” Cheruiyot reiterated.
Governor Mutai further announced the on course Kericho’s major healthcare infrastructure projects including the Sh358 million Non-Communicable Disease Centre at Kericho Referral Hospital, Sh158 million Sosiot Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Unit, Sh 58 million Cheborge Health Centre, and the Sh55 million Kunyak Health Centre project. Additionally, he said the replacement of asbestos roofing in health facilities to improve safety standards was ongoing.
To strengthen the workforce, the County Government has pledged to promote over 500 healthcare staff across various sectors this year with Governor Mutai explaining the need for a well-motivated workforce in achieving universal healthcare.
“A healthy workforce means better services for our people. We will continue to prioritize staff welfare and promotions,” he assured.
The Governor reiterated that his administration was fully committed to delivering quality healthcare services adding: “Together, we are building a healthier, more resilient, and thriving Kericho County, and call for unity and dedication to ensure better healthcare for all residents,” he declared.
By Gilbert Mutai and Happiness Tanui
