•Kimtai said beyond the technical correctness of healthcare services, patient care ought to be provided humanely
•According to the PS, research has confirmed that better outcomes are reported when the patients, families and healthcare workers communicate effectively
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Principal Secretary Medical Services Harry Kimtai has called on healthcare providers to prioritize treating patients and their families with dignity and respect.
Speaking during Kenyatta National Hospital patient-centred care symposium, the PS emphasized that involving patients in decision-making results in improved outcomes and a better overall patient experience.
“Beyond the technical correctness of healthcare services, patient care ought to be provided humanely,” Kimtai said.
According to the PS, research has confirmed that better outcomes are reported when the patients, families and healthcare workers communicate effectively.
This, Kimtai said, enables them to work towards a common desired outcome.
“Trust that is fostered during clinical visits enables the patients to follow through with the care plan even while at home,” Kimtai said.
He pointed out that although the advantages of involving patients and families are widely recognized, countries like Kenya, categorized as Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), still miss opportunities to improve patient experience for better outcomes.
A study previously published in the medical journal, The Lancet revealed that patients in LMICs have low levels of confidence in and endorsement of their health systems.Kenya was one of the study countries in the research.
“The healthcare system ought to address the gap by engaging healthcare workers, training institutions and healthcare facilities in ensuring that patient-centered care is strategically used to optimize patient experience,” he said.
The PS acknowledged that even as the country strives to attain Universal Health Coverage, it is important to address access to care services.
Kimati said that while addressing financial barriers to healthcare, it is imperative to take note of the quality of healthcare services adding that quality services are effective, safe and patient-centered.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring every financial investment adds value to the common Kenyan as the country rolls out the new health financing model.
The patient and family-centered care symposium held at KNH focused on a constitutional right for Kenyans, addressing quality of care.
The symposium was held under the theme, "Fostering Trust and Compassion: Elevating Patient and Family-Centered Care".
The PS said the theme resonates well with the government's direction in ensuring that no Kenyan is left behind in the era of UHC.