Health X Africa Sets Precedence for Inclusive Healthcare in Kenya

Nairobi,

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

KNA by Nkooma Samson/Okal Kevin

Health X Africa, a pioneering primary healthcare provider, has taken a resounding step towards ensuring inclusive and affordable healthcare for people with disabilities in Kenya making it more equitable and accessible for all, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.

Speaking in Nairobi, Health X Africa, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Roy Bore said that Healthcare is a fundamental right for every Kenyan, yet a significant portion of the population, especially those with disabilities, has been grappling with barriers to quality healthcare services.

Referring to the 2019 census, Bore revealed that 2.2 percent of Kenyans live with disabilities, but the harsh reality is that 80 percent of them lack access to quality primary healthcare services.

 He added that lack of accessibility has serious implications for early disease detection, mental health support, and the management of chronic conditions.

In the wake of this transformative journey, Bore believes that telemedicine is the key to unlocking healthcare access for all, regardless of their abilities.

“For too long, people living with disabilities have been excessively disadvantaged in accessing preventive, Promotive, and curative health care,” stated Bore. He continued, “Telemedicine ensures healthcare is convenient for all Kenyans, where they want and when they want.”

In regards to the Journey towards Inclusive Healthcare, the CEO noted that Health X Africa is taking tangible steps to revolutionize the healthcare landscape in Kenya.

Additionally, he acknowledged that they are collaborating with organizations such as the National Council for People with Disabilities (NCPWD), Riziki Source, and the Kenya Paraplegic Organization, to create a supportive ecosystem that ensures everyone can access healthcare services without discrimination.

In his presentation, Bore stated that Health X Africa offers a wide range of services, including medical consultation, mental health counseling, and nutrition services.

He said that Health X Africa offers a wide range of services that are available 24/7 through toll-free calls 720 795 which can even offer support for home laboratory testing and medication deliveries.

The CEO observed that with the Health X technological advancement to ensure accessible and equitable healthcare services, patients do not have to leave their homes to receive comprehensive primary care. This marks a significant step towards overcoming physical accessibility barriers and communication challenges.

On a glimpse at the Statistics, Bore maintained that understanding the gravity of the situation is crucial in appreciating the significance of Health X Africa’s mission.

According to the 2019 census, 2.2 percent of Kenyans live with disabilities. Among this group, 28.6 percent face mobility disabilities, 24.8 percent have visual impairments, 11.4 percent have hearing impairments, and 8 percent struggle with communication-related impairments. Strikingly, 57.5 percent of these individuals are women, and 80 percent reside in rural areas.

The obstacles people with disabilities face in accessing healthcare have been multifaceted. These barriers include the lack of physical accessibility in healthcare facilities, challenges in effective communication with healthcare providers, and the burden of pervasive social stigmas. Misunderstandings due to a lack of communication assistance further compound these issues.

At the same time, Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, stressed the significance of focusing on people with disabilities in the quest for Universal Health Care.

He stated, “Universal Health Care will be difficult to achieve without a focus on people with disabilities. Changes made to improve coverage for people with disabilities will likely benefit a wider group, including elderly persons, ethnic minorities, and people with short-term functional difficulties."

In his closing remarks, Bore maintained Health X Africa's commitment to inclusive healthcare in Kenya is a transformative journey that promises to bring about equitable, accessible, and comprehensive healthcare for all, regardless of their abilities.

Courtesy; KNA