Nyong’o faults move on Cuban doctors

Kisumu,

Tuesday, October 17, 2023

KNA by Chris Mahandara and Millicent Ouko

Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o has criticized the decision by the government to revoke the deal with Cuban doctors.

Nyong’o termed the decision as irrational saying it was set to plunge the nation into a terrible health crisis.

 The family doctors, who are specialists in different areas, he said were instrumental in the provision of health services at the devolved units and could therefore not just be withdrawn suddenly.

He said County governments were still grappling with a shortage of healthcare professionals with very little done so far to train specialists to take up the duties performed by the Cuban doctors.

 “In Kisumu for example, we had three Cuban doctors at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH). The specialists- a dermatologist, an oncologist, and a cardiologist leave behind a long queue of patients. Where are we going to find a replacement for these doctors?” he asked.

The Governor said since health was a devolved function, the national government ought to have consulted with governors to find out how best to address the matter instead of withdrawing the services suddenly.

“The rational and wise decision that should have been made was to first and foremost identify Kenyan doctors to replace the Cuban doctors before they are withdrawn,” he said.

He asked the Ministry of Health to rescind the decision and engage the Council of Governors (COG) to find an amicable solution to the matter.

 “The only course of action if the decision is not rescinded is to get alternative doctors from elsewhere. This must involve the national government so that our people don’t suffer,” he said.

Courtesy; KNA