Ministry of Health Commits to Addressing Critical Health Issues for the Deaf Community
This initiative aims to bridge the gap in diagnostic services for the Deaf community and reduce the financial burden on individuals requiring these assessments.
The Ministry of Health has pledged to improve healthcare accessibility and inclusivity for the Deaf community in Nairobi. Photo/Ministry of Health.
The Ministry of Health has pledged to improve healthcare accessibility and inclusivity for the Deaf community in Nairobi.
This commitment was highlighted during a meeting between Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, and leaders from the Nairobi Association of the Deaf (NAD).
A central focus of the discussions was enhancing access to Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry (BERA) assessments, crucial for diagnosing hearing impairments. The Ministry plans to equip county hospitals with BERA machines to ensure affordable and effective hearing tests.
This initiative aims to bridge the gap in diagnostic services for the Deaf community and reduce the financial burden on individuals requiring these assessments.
Additionally, the Ministry is exploring the integration of BERA assessments into the Social Health Authority (SHA) coverage.
This inclusion would benefit both civil servants and other members of the Deaf community, enabling more people to access essential healthcare services without financial constraints.
Efforts to fast-track SHA training and registration for Deaf individuals were also discussed as part of the broader strategy to enhance health equity.
The meeting underscored the importance of inclusive employment opportunities for Deaf individuals within the health sector.
By creating a more representative workforce, the Ministry aims to address the unique needs of the Deaf community while promoting diversity and inclusion in healthcare services.
Another key agenda item was the upcoming World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) Conference, scheduled for August 2024. NAD leaders sought the Ministry’s support in organizing this significant event, which is expected to bring together global stakeholders to discuss issues affecting Deaf communities worldwide.
PS Muthoni reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating with NAD and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of these initiatives.
“We are committed to building a healthcare system that caters to the needs of all Kenyans, including the Deaf community, through targeted interventions and inclusive policies,” she stated.
NAD leaders welcomed the Ministry’s proactive approach, expressing optimism about the proposed measures and their potential impact on the community.
They emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue and partnership to address the unique challenges faced by Deaf individuals in accessing healthcare and employment opportunities.
With these initiatives, the Ministry of Health aims to create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system, ensuring that the Deaf community receives the support and services they deserve.
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