The Nakuru County Department of Health Services, in partnership with the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), is spearheading a comprehensive effort to enhance lung health interventions across the region.
Subsequently, a crucial sensitisation forum, held on Friday, brought together County, Sub-County, and facility in-charges to discuss and refine the County’s Lung Health Implementation Approach.
The forum centred on strengthening the detection and management of a range of respiratory illnesses, including Tuberculosis (TB), Post-TB Lung Disease (PTLD), Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and other related conditions.
Participants explored innovative intervention strategies aimed at improving collaboration between healthcare providers and addressed existing policy challenges to ensure more effective service delivery.
“Integrating lung health into primary care is paramount to ensuring accessible and quality services for all residents of Nakuru,” stated Mrs. Elizabeth Kiptoo, the County Director for Public Health, during the forum. She reaffirmed the County’s unwavering commitment to this new integrated approach.
Dr. Neimah Barasa, the County TB and Lung Health Coordinator, led the sensitisation efforts, emphasising the importance of a unified strategy.
“A coordinated approach to lung health ensures improved case detection, timely management, and ultimately, better patient outcomes across all levels of care,” Dr. Barasa explained.
The discussions underscored the necessity of a multi-faceted approach, involving enhanced training for healthcare workers, improved diagnostic capabilities, and community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung health.
The partnership with CHAI is expected to provide valuable technical assistance and resources to support the County’s ambitious goals.
The initiative aims to create a more resilient and responsive healthcare system, capable of effectively addressing the burden of lung diseases and improving the overall well-being of the Nakuru population.
This integrated strategy marks a significant step forward in the county’s efforts to provide comprehensive and equitable healthcare services.
By Veronica Bosibori
