26 In a move meant to boost staff morale and enhance service delivery in health facilities, the County Government of Kajiado today received a guideline for attraction, retention and management of Human Resources for health document.
The proposed Kajiado County incentive framework model suggests favorable initiatives that if implemented will provide proper working conditions by incorporating financial and non-financial incentives that will make health facilities including those in remote areas attractive and favorable to work in.
The timely document which was developed with the support of Human Resources for Health (HRH)Kenya Program funded by USAID- implemented by Intra health International in collaboration with the department of medical services, public health & sanitation, county partners and other stakeholders.
Robert Athewa, Communication and Liaison Officer and Chair-Health Partners Kajiado County outlined that for the success of the framework to be realized, the Kajiado County Government needed to embark on a deliberate process of change which involves financing of health care services which has traditionally capitalized on infrastructure development, drugs and equipment and with minimum attention to the Human Resources for health.
“15% of national budget was allocated to the health sector unfortunately only 8% is being utilized making it a challenge to counties to operate unless more money is pumped in,” he said.
Athewa acknowledged that well designed health systems should prioritize motivation of staff to deliver quality health care services. These he said can be accelerated through development of a human resource partnership with national government institutions and other stakeholders.
According to Jacob Sampeke, the Chief Officer in charge of Medical Services, provision of staff development opportunities at all levels of service delivery is of key importance in empowering them to perform their duties effectively.
He observed that identifying staff retention initiatives especially to staff in rural health facilities as well as an advancement in their capacity, salaries and promotions would have an overall effect on their morale and output.
“We will work around the clock with the leadership within the health ministry to give all the staff the necessary support they require for the benefit of the people of the Kajiado,” said Sampeke.
He said the purpose of the guideline was to put in place a highly motivated human resource for health which is able to meet fast growing demand for health care and help the County attain Universal Health Coverage that H.E the Governor was keen on achieving in the next four years.
Sampeke said the County Government through the Department of Medical Services Health and Sanitation had embarked on improving of infrastructure as well as repairs of road network, and provision of social amenities such as water, electricity among others.
“We have already recommended a number of doctors and staff to further their studies abroad and bring back expertise in their specialties; this will enhance our service delivery efforts,” he said.
The Human Resource for Health is a key factor in realizing the health objectives outlined in the Kajiado County Integrated Development Plan, CIDP for the FY 2018 a 2022. The County Government has already made elaborate plans to improve health care provision by upgrading, expanding and equipping health facilities to enable them offer more specialized services.
