Govt announces key changes aimed at tackling public health issues

The Ministry of Health has confirmed a raft of changes aimed at advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC). 

In an update shared on Saturday, December 21, 2024,  the health ministry announced that the government had undertaken significant steps to boost UHC and handle public health concerns. 

“The Ministry of Health is taking significant steps to support healthcare professionals in advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and tackling public health issues,” the update shared reads in parts. 

Among the significant changes include the promotions of over 500 healthcare professionals in the national government. 

The health ministry also confirmed the payment of intern doctors.

“Nursing and Clinical Officer Degree interns will return to previous stipend rates, while Diploma Clinical Officer interns will be compensated according to Salaries and Remuneration Commission guidelines,” the health ministry said. 

“The Ministry is committed to clearing outstanding stipends for 100,000 Community Health Promoters by year-end.”

The latest comes days after Public Health Principal Secretary (PS) Mary Muthoni reiterated the government’s commitment to address key issues in the medical sector and resolve pending matters following complaints by medics who had announced a looming strike.

PS Muthoni highlighted the importance of having doctors available during the festive season and urged the doctors to agree to negotiate to do away with the standoff.

She also encouraged members of the public to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) to ensure they are covered should any unexpected emergency occur.

“The best gift you can give your family and your children is to register them with the Social Health Authority (SHA); this is because you will have covered them from any emergency that may come unexpectedly.

“The government is committed to making sure everyone gets treatment despite their status, once they go to any level hospital,” she added.