KMPDU issues update on doctors' Return to Work Formula implementation

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists' Union (KMPDU) says current medical interns, who missed their April salaries, will receive it alongside their June pay. 

The remarks were made by KMPDU Deputy Secretary General Dennis Miskellah following a meeting with the Public Health Principal Secretary (PS) Mary Muriuki.

The meeting, held on Monday, June 3, was meant to track the status of the implementation of the Return to Work Formula (RTWF) signed between striking doctors and the government on Wednesday, May 8.

 Miskellah said the union had proposed that the next cohort of medical interns be inducted by mid-June before mutually agreeable Terms of Service are met. 

The union also assured that the provision of an enhanced comprehensive medical cover for doctors would be in place by July 1, when the current National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) lapses.

On matters of promotion, the union says it has provided a list of names of members who have qualified for promotions to the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Labour. 

They also called on the County Governments to be proactive in ensuring the agreement signed on May 8 is implemented, especially regarding the harmonization of salaries. 

Miskellah has called on the county governments to avoid victimizing doctors who participated in the strike.

"We will plan a meeting with the Council of Governors to track the progress of the County Governments' Return to Work Formula,” he said.

Doctors and the government came to an agreement following a nationwide strike by the former for 56 days. 

Part of the doctors demands included the posting of intern doctors, payment of basic salary arrears, harmonization of the salary scale of doctors, and the provision of medical cover.