The Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital (KUTRRH) board chairperson, Prof. Olive Mugenda, is facing criticism from medical professionals after it was revealed that four out of five foreign doctors hired to replace striking doctors did not meet the required threshold set by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) to practice in Kenya.
Amidst the ongoing doctors’ strike, which has entered its fifth week, KUTRRH had recruited five oncologists from neighboring East African countries, including Ethiopia, Malawi, and Tanzania, with the aim of resuming critical medical services. However, the failure of these foreign doctors to meet the necessary standards has raised concerns among medical union officials, who have criticized Prof. Mugenda for the hiring decision.
Dr. Dennis Miskellah, the secretary-general of KMPDU, expressed dismay at the situation, highlighting the potential risks to patients’ lives. He emphasized the importance of quality healthcare, stating, “Good health is not just any health! Prof. Mugenda must retire because it seems she is now playing PR with our patients’ lives!”
Regarding the status of the hospital’s striking doctors, Prof. Mugenda revealed last week that the majority of them had received dismissal or suspension letters. With only 82 doctors currently operating out of a capacity of 250, the hospital faces significant challenges in maintaining essential medical services amidst the strike.
The situation underscores the ongoing tension between healthcare workers and hospital management, with concerns raised about patient care and the impact of the strike on medical services. As the strike persists, there is a pressing need for constructive dialogue and resolution to ensure the provision of quality healthcare to patients.
