Nakuru: In a significant step towards enhancing community-level health services, the Nakuru County Department of Health Services, in collaboration with Amref Health Africa under the THRIVE project, convened a crucial stakeholder meeting on Wednesday to validate the county's Primary Healthcare (PHC) work plan. The initiative aims to improve access, quality, and equity in healthcare delivery across the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, the validation forum, held at the Nakuru County Headquarters, brought together key stakeholders, including County and Sub-County Health Management Teams and various implementing partners who are integral to the PHC landscape in Nakuru. The meeting focused on aligning priority interventions and ensuring a unified approach to strengthening healthcare at the grassroots level.
"This work plan is not just a document; it is a roadmap to bring services closer to the people and ensure no one is left behind," emphasised Dr. Elizabeth Kiptoo, the County Director for Public Health, during her address. "Our goal is to create a robust and responsive primary healthcare system that addresses the diverse needs of our population," she added.
The THRIVE project, funded by Amref, plays a vital role in complementing existing county health initiatives. It focuses on reinforcing integrated service delivery, strengthening community health systems, and building the capacity of the health workforce. This holistic approach is crucial for achieving sustainable improvements in healthcare outcomes.
The validated work plan outlines specific strategies for enhancing service delivery, including focusing on training, resource allocation, and supervision to empower CHWs in delivering essential health services. Dr. Kiptoo mentioned that they are upgrading and equipping health centers to provide quality care, especially in underserved areas, ensuring seamless transitions between community-level care and higher-level health facilities, and implementing robust monitoring and evaluation systems to track progress and inform policy decisions.
He said they were fostering active involvement of communities in planning and implementing health programmes. "The validated work plan will serve as a guiding tool for all stakeholders, ensuring coordinated efforts towards achieving our primary healthcare goals. We are committed to supporting Nakuru County in building a resilient and equitable health system," stated a representative from Amref Health Africa.
The plan also addresses key health challenges in the region, including maternal and child health, infectious diseases, and non-communicable diseases. The stakeholders agreed on the importance of prioritising these areas to improve the overall health and well-being of Nakuru residents.
Following the validation, the Department of Health Services will proceed with the implementation phase, closely monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments to ensure the work plan's effectiveness. The stakeholders have also committed to regular review meetings to maintain momentum and address emerging challenges.
This collaborative effort underscores Nakuru County's commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and ensuring that all residents have access to quality primary healthcare services. The validated work plan sets a strong foundation for a healthier and more prosperous future for the people of Nakuru.