Health CS Susan Nakhumicha Makes U-Turn on Posting of Intern Doctors

In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

• Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha accelerated the placement of medical interns from April 1 to March 21 amidst ongoing doctor strikes, emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to addressing the healthcare crisis.
• Nakhumicha warned of potential dismissals for striking doctors and revealed directives to recruit alternative medical personnel to prevent gaps in critical care provision.

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha made a significant announcement on Wednesday, March 20, regarding the placement of medical interns. 

In an interview, Nakhumicha disclosed that the commencement date for intern postings has been expedited, moving up from April 1 to the current date, March 21.

In her statement, Nakhumicha outlined the operational guidelines, confirming the initiation of intern placements starting the following day. 

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She urged interns to collect their placement letters promptly, emphasizing the subsequent acquisition of licenses which would enable them to secure employment in both public and private healthcare sectors.

The decision to advance the posting date was driven by the urgent situation within the health sector, particularly amidst ongoing doctor strikes. 

Nakhumicha underscored the Ministry’s dedication to addressing the crisis and encouraged medical practitioners to engage in dialogue through the Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU).

While discussing the issue of remuneration, Nakhumicha clarified that the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Salaries Remuneration Commission (SRC). 

She stressed that interns are in a learning phase and therefore not entitled to employee benefits.

Highlighting the Ministry’s efforts to resolve the crisis, Nakhumicha acknowledged challenges stemming from disagreements, notably concerning the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). These concerns have persisted since 2017, predating her tenure.

Expressing a firm stance, Nakhumicha warned of potential dismissals for doctors participating in the strike if negotiations remained fruitless. 

She affirmed the Ministry’s readiness to recruit alternative medical personnel in the event of a prolonged impasse.

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Furthermore, Nakhumicha disclosed directives from Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital (KUTRRH) to recruit doctors, clinical officer interns, and nursing interns. 

The imperative to prevent a healthcare crisis was underscored, with a commitment to addressing critical care needs, including those in intensive care units and neonatal facilities, through the recruitment of locum doctors.