Primary healthcare facilities to get medicines by December, CS Barasa says
The Health CS noted that primary healthcare is the first point of contact and the closest level of care for patients.
The Ministry of Health has pledged that essential medications will be available at primary healthcare facilities by December this year. In an interview, Health Cabinet Secretary Debora Barasa said her ministry is committed to providing accessible, quality healthcare across Kenya.
"I want to assure you that the facilities will be properly equipped with medication by December," said Barasa.
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The Health CS noted that primary healthcare is the first point of contact and the closest level of care for patients.
"Quality is critical. We are mapping out the needs to ensure every facility has the capacity to deliver effective care," Barasa stated, explaining that her ministry is currently conducting an in-depth assessment across all 47 counties to evaluate the readiness of hospitals.
This assessment will help identify any gaps and determine what improvements are needed to meet the standards of quality healthcare.
Barasa emphasised the government's commitment to delivering quality healthcare at the primary level, extending to level 4 facilities, which provide more advanced services.
"Kenyans will soon be able to access outpatient treatment up to level 4 (hospitals) as we strengthen the referral system," she said, highlighting efforts to improve the patient journey and ensure that primary and mid-level facilities can handle a broad range of health needs.
The ministry's current focus on primary care and the referral system reflects a broader goal of making healthcare accessible at the local level while easing the demand on specialised hospitals.
With this comprehensive approach, the government aims to enhance health outcomes nationwide, bringing quality care closer to home for millions of Kenyans.
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