The government has called on doctors to comply with a court order and engage in dialogue to avert the looming nationwide strike scheduled for December 22. Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni expressed confidence that an amicable solution would be reached within the 90-day negotiation period mandated by the court.
Speaking in Kirinyaga, PS Muthoni reiterated the government’s commitment to resolving the grievances of medical practitioners. “We love our intern doctors very much, and we would want to adhere to the court ruling that gave us 90 days for consultations. We will use this period to ensure that we have the best conversations moving forward,” she said.
However, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has maintained that its members are resolute in their decision to go on strike, citing unresolved issues with the government. The union’s Secretary General, Dr. Davji Atellah, directed hospitals to begin releasing patients starting December 19 in preparation for the industrial action.
Patients to Be Discharged
Dr. Atellah stated that the discharge process will start with major hospitals, including Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), and Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital (KUTRRH).
“Doctors should start discharging patients from December 19 so that by the midnight of December 22, we don’t lose any patients,” said Atellah. He also emphasized that the government must take responsibility for the welfare of patients during the strike, adding, “We have given enough notice.”
The timing of the strike, coinciding with the festive season, has raised concerns about its potential impact on patients, particularly those requiring urgent medical attention. PS Muthoni expressed regret over the suffering that could result from the doctors’ decision to down tools.
Mpox Virus Update
In addition to addressing the strike, PS Muthoni revealed that Kenya has recorded a new case of the Mpox virus, bringing the country’s total to 29 cases. The latest case was reported in Mombasa County.
Out of the 29 confirmed cases, 18 individuals have been treated and discharged, while 10 remain hospitalized. “One more Mpox virus case has been reported in the last 24 hours, making a total of 29 cases in the country,” she said.
Muthoni assured the public that the government has intensified surveillance at border points and enhanced screening of people entering the country to prevent the virus from spreading further. She urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious cases, especially during the holiday season when travel activity typically increases.
Social Health Insurance Campaign
PS Muthoni also used the platform to encourage Kenyans to enroll in the government’s Social Health Insurance scheme. She appealed to parents to register their children ahead of the school reopening period in January.
This move aligns with the government’s broader goal of improving access to healthcare services for all citizens. “We urge all Kenyans to continue enrolling in the Social Health Insurance scheme, which will ensure better healthcare for everyone,” she said.
Call for Dialogue
The impending doctors’ strike has brought to light the long-standing issues facing Kenya’s healthcare system. The government and the KMPDU remain at odds, but the 90-day negotiation period offers a window of opportunity for a resolution.
While PS Muthoni emphasized the importance of dialogue, the KMPDU insists that the government must fulfill its obligations. The outcome of the discussions will determine whether Kenya’s health sector can avert a crisis during one of the busiest times of the year.
As the December 22 strike deadline approaches, all eyes are on the government and the union to find common ground and ensure that essential health services are not disrupted.
