Did you watch the healthcare summit? I was somewhat disappointed by answers given by Hon. Maillu and his permanent Secretary in the healthcare docket. Healthcare is not a joke and issues raised should be tackled with urgency and seriousness they deserve. Responses given regarding our cancer stricken mothers, sisters and grand-mothers sleeping on the floor of Kenyatta hospital as reported by a local TV station were lacking empathy and policy.
First of all, these ladies were sleeping next to “Hatari Danger” sign, probably indicating radio activity or electrical units. This in itself is a public health issue that must be addressed by the fire department or relevant departments.
Secondly, in the year 2016 our Kenyan healthcare should modernize and must respond correctly to emerging issues and adhere to international standards. Cancer patients visiting hospitals for radiology should be admitted first into a ward while waiting for the procedure…I refuse to believe that the so called health managers do not have an idea of what our people are going through. Kenya is a rich country and the least we can do is to show some empathy to the most vulnerable members of our community. Accord them the little comfort a bed could provide as they wait for their turn to receive care and some relief from pains caused by Cancer.
Where are our cancer survivors in parliament? Who are the custodian of public coffers (Beth Mugo and Peter Anyang Nyongo)—can’t they champion for better healthcare for our sick mothers, sisters and grandmothers? Change is needed now; we are smart people just like the Israelis or the Americans- a Kenyan life and their dignity is worth fighting for; it’s worth dying for!
