Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda has raised concerns in the Senate over the declining quality of healthcare services in counties, blaming it partly on public health workers engaging in private medical practice during official hours.
While requesting a Statement from the Senate Standing Committee on Health, Senator Mutinda called for a detailed report on the number of licensed medical doctors, pharmacists, and clinical officers in the country. She asked that the figures be provided as recorded by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, and the Clinical Officers Council.
She also requested the Committee to reveal how many of these professionals are currently employed by county governments.
Further, the senator demanded a list of private clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies owned or operated by medical personnel who are also on county government payrolls.
She questioned the effectiveness of current measures meant to prevent county-employed health workers from attending to private businesses during public working hours.
“What measures are in place by county governments and regulatory bodies to prevent public sector medical staff from engaging in private practice during official working hours?” Senator Mutinda posed.
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