While the government has shown some commitment to the successful rollout of the universal health coverage (UHC) to enable the common mwananchi access affordable quality medicare, revelations about the plight of registrar doctors offering the services calls for an urgent action.

Registrar doctors who are pursuing postgraduate studies while working in public hospitals play a pivotal role in the country’s health care system, particularly in Levels 4, 5 and 6 health facilities.

In all the major public hospitals such as Kenya National Hospital (KNH) and Moi Teaching and Referring Hospital (MTRH), this is the lot that does the donkey work as the so called consultants are busy in their private facilities and only show up when there is a seriously complicated matter.

However, despite their critical role, these dedicated professionals face significant challenges ranging from working long hours and without pay, lack of medical insurances and lack of welfare support, which threaten their well-being and, by extension, the quality of care provided to the public.

Registrar doctors, by virtue of their position, are engaged in an intricate balancing act. They spend long hours working in public hospitals, attending to patients, performing surgeries, and handling emergencies, all while simultaneously pursuing postgraduate studies. This includes attending lectures, conducting research, and preparing for exams. The demands are immense—requiring long hours, immense mental focus, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Yet, despite their tireless efforts and significant contributions to the healthcare system, the majority of these doctors struggle with the financial strain that comes from juggling both work and study.

According to the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU), at least seven Registrar doctors died by suicide last year due to depression and frustration from their work. Several others have continued to suffer in silence.

In some instances, registrar doctors have to make do with stipends or insufficient pay, which leads to financial strain and, at times, an eventual exodus of talent to private hospitals or even to other countries where the financial rewards and work-life balance are more attractive. In addition to better salaries, improving the welfare of registrar doctors is paramount. This encompasses more than just financial support; it also involves ensuring that these doctors have the time, resources, and environment to thrive.

Access to mental health support, reasonable working hours, proper rest, and opportunities for professional development are all critical. A tired, stressed, or overburdened registrar doctor is less likely to deliver the quality care patients deserve.