The Kenyan Government has expressed its readiness to engage in constructive dialogue with the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) to prevent disruptions in healthcare services. This announcement follows the midnight strike on Monday, during which clinical officers across the nation halted operations to demand better working conditions.
Among the issues raised by KUCO is the empanelment of registered facilities to the Social Health Authority (SHA) and the authorization of pre-approval services for practitioners. The union is also pushing for the negotiation of their 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which they argue has faced significant delays in implementation.
In a press briefing in Nairobi, union officials emphasized the need for swift action to address their grievances, stating that uninterrupted healthcare service delivery relies on resolving these long-standing issues. They called on the Ministry of Health to expedite the accreditation of registered facilities and ensure practitioners can provide authorized services through SHA platforms.
The Council of Governors (CoG) has acknowledged the concerns raised by clinical officers, pledging to work towards a resolution. During a recent meeting with the Ministry of Health, SHA authorities, and digital health agencies, the CoG instructed the empanelment of registered facilities and approved pre-authorization services for clinical officers. The council expressed its commitment to addressing the union’s grievances to restore normalcy in healthcare services.
Meanwhile, nurses in Lamu County staged protests over delayed salaries, stalled promotions, and alleged threats from county officials. Speaking outside the County Public Service Board offices, the nurses voiced their frustrations over being ignored by the county administration. They called on Lamu Governor Issa Timamy to intervene and ensure that their grievances are addressed.
The nurses accused county leadership of discriminatory practices in career progression and demanded timely salary payments to ensure their financial stability. “We cannot effectively serve patients while battling delayed salaries and constant threats. We need action, not promises,” one protester remarked.
As healthcare workers across the country continue to push for better conditions, the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue offers a glimmer of hope for resolving these disputes. Stakeholders, including KUCO and the CoG, have underscored the importance of swift action to avoid prolonged disruptions in essential healthcare services.
The healthcare sector remains a vital pillar of national development, and addressing these grievances will be crucial in ensuring a robust and efficient system for all Kenyans.
