KNH Overwhelmed as Patient Numbers Surge Amid Doctors’ Strike
Dr. Lesiyampe further noted that the rise in the number of patients has put a strain on critical hospital activities, including theatre time, blood supplies,
Dr. Richard Lesiyampe expressed grave concern over the crisis and termed it as an escalating crisis that is imposing a lot of strain on KNHs already stretched resources. Photo/ Courtesy
By Juliet Jerotich
Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) is also grappling with a disorderly boom of patients since the ongoing strike by medics in Nairobi and Kiambu counties continues to immobilize public hospital activity. The national referral hospital is now the first point of care for dozens of patients who would otherwise be treated in county hospitals.
Speaking in a statement released on Wednesday, acting Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard Lesiyampe expressed grave concern over the crisis and termed it as an escalating crisis that is imposing a lot of strain on KNHs already stretched resources. He urged the county governments and the striking doctors to act towards finding a speedy end to the crisis, citing that the situation at hand is not for sale.
“With partial closure or shutdown of the health facilities in Nairobi and Kiambu counties, KNH has been forced to absorb a massive number of patients who need emergency care. They are arriving in critical or serious condition,” Dr. Lesiyampe stated.
He also said the maternity unit has been most affected, with the labour ward and newborn unit now holding over twice their usual number of patients. “Sadly, some of the babies and mothers are coming too late for appropriate interventions, which is resulting in a few tragic losses despite the best efforts of our medical staff,” he said.
Dr. Lesiyampe further noted that the rise in the number of patients has put a strain on critical hospital activities, including theatre time, blood supplies, and laboratory services. “Our physicians are employing all the tricks in their bag to treat each patient, but the pressure on resources has reached breaking point. The issue calls for an emergency response,” he further said.
He also emphasized the need for an early resolution to the impasse affecting county hospitals, saying that the return to normal business at the ground level would allow patients to access treatment close to their homes. “We appeal to all parties in the industrial dispute to put the interest of the patients first and call off the strike. This will help ease the burden on KNH and save lives unnecessarily,” he implored.
Despite the growing challenges, the public was reassured by Dr. Lesiyampe that KNH remains committed to offering life-saving health care services. “Our teams work around the clock to save lives. We shall not falter in our responsibility to treat all those who seek our assistance, even during these difficult times,” he stated.
The strike has once more exposed the vulnerability of Kenya’s public health system, with KNH currently carrying the load of two big counties as negotiations between doctors and county governments remain at a standstill.
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