Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha has appealed to doctors for patience as the ministry works towards a long-term solution to the internship challenges. Addressing the issue at Afya House on Tuesday, Nakhumicha mentioned ongoing discussions with union officials to find a resolution regarding the posting of interns.
The plea from Nakhumicha follows the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union’s issuance of a seven-day ultimatum to the ministry. Failure to address their concerns within this timeframe could lead to a nationwide strike starting from Sunday midnight.
Nakhumicha urged the union to engage in discussions rather than resorting to a strike, emphasizing that a strike would not provide a lasting solution. Acknowledging the delay in resolving the matter, she assured that efforts were being made to find a comprehensive solution.
The Health CS highlighted that, apart from addressing funding requirements, the ministry is considering factors such as the availability of trainers to supervise interns. She disclosed that union officials had a meeting with Public Health and Professional Standards PS Mary Muthoni on Tuesday to address the stalemate and find common ground.
Nakhumicha explained that the country’s level 4, 5, and 6 facilities serve as internship centers, but they must meet specific requirements. These include the presence of medical officers and specialists to supervise interns, proper equipment, and health commodities.
While acknowledging the need for prompt action, Nakhumicha emphasized the importance of comprehensive preparation before posting interns. She assured interns that efforts were underway to resolve the situation and urged patience during the ongoing discussions.
The CS recognized that the issue involves multiple stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, county governments, the Ministry of Labour, the National Treasury, the Public Service Commission, and the Salaries and Remuneration Commission.
The decision to issue a strike notice was reached by the doctors after a meeting of the National Advisory Committee Council on Sunday. Dennis Miskellah, the deputy secretary-general, explained that the initial plan was to issue the strike notice in June but was moved forward due to recent developments, including an injury during protests and disagreements over intern postings. According to KMPDU, 1,215 medical interns are awaiting posting, with some waiting for extended periods.
