NAIROBI, Kenya – The provision of healthcare services is expected to improve in the country after the Ministry of Health (MoH) signed a Return-To-work Formula with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU).
The signing of an addendum to the Return-To-work Formula dated May 8, 2024, on Wednesday, July 17, now paves the way for posting 1,210 intern doctors to various public health facilities nationwide.
Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni Muriuki and KMPDU Secretary-General Davji Atellah led the document’s signing.
“This crucial agreement signed amid ongoing negotiations confirms the immediate posting of 1,210 intern doctors, enabling them to start their internships by August 1, 2024. Following the signing of this supplement, MoH will immediately post 1,210 intern doctors to commence their 12-month internship by August 1, 2024,” Muthoni said in a statement seen by Y News.
What are the contents of the internship placement letters
The PS further revealed that her Ministry had also revoked the Internship Offer letters issued on March 18, 2024.
“The terms of engagement for these intern doctors will follow the conditions set out in their internship placement letters,” Muthoni said.
The PS disclosed that the remuneration issue, currently in dispute, will be resolved according to the final determination of Eldoret Employment and Labour Relations Court Petition 003 of 2024 and other related cases.
According to Muthoni, all arrears earned before the court’s decision will be paid in full within 90 days of the ruling.
“The Ministry and KMPDU acknowledge the ongoing court matter related to this issue in the Employment and Labour Relations Court in Eldoret and Nairobi. They also recognise the establishment of the Presidential Taskforce on addressing Human Resources for Health on July 5, 2024, which includes KMPDU members,” said Muthoni.
Other issues to be addressed by the Presidential Taskforce
Muthoni reiterated that the task force will address the Human Resources for Health Internship issues and provide recommendations.
“MoH is grateful to the KMPDU for their steadfast commitment and constructive engagement throughout this process. This agreement marks a positive step towards improving the working conditions for healthcare professionals and ensuring the provision of quality healthcare for all Kenyans,” explained the PS.
Muthoni, who currently oversees all the operations at MoH following the dismissal of former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha, maintained that:
“The Ministry remains dedicated to fostering a collaborative relationship with KMPDU and other stakeholders in the health sector to address and resolve ongoing issues, ultimately enhancing the healthcare system in Kenya.
