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Senate roots for policy on health staff

The Senate wants the Council of Governors and Ministry of Health to develop a policy for training, certification and hiring of community health staff.

This, the senators argued, will enhance emergency health service delivery in counties by equipping community health workers.

In a motion sponsored by nominated Senator Rose Nyamunga (ODM), the senators further argued that Governors should not be too focused on constructing storey buildings as hospitals but on ensuring there are personnel to take care of patients.

“One of the problems that we have in our country in as far as healthcare is concerned is facilities. However, we are putting a lot of money on the structures, which is not enough. We should go to the basics,” said Ms Nyamunga.

Nyamunga said the infrastructure and vastness of some counties made it difficult for patients to reach hospitals, adding that if community health workers were equipped with the necessary equipment, they would easily offer basic emergency services.

While seconding the Motion, West Pokot Senator Samuel Poghisio said each county government should develop a policy for community health workers, especially on healthcare of little children and mothers who have to travel long distances to get treatment.

He said in countries like Tanzania and Uganda, community health workers were the majority among the health staff and had good connection with residents.

“Let us have counties pay for it because health is devolved. It will help to deal with the majority of problems in counties,” he said.

Bungoma Senator Moses Wetang'ula, while contributing to the debate, said the issue of community health workers was so critical for primary healthcare and preventative approach for dealing with diseases.

Senate Minority Leader James Orengo said without well trained staff for primary healthcare, effective medical services could not be offered in counties.

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