In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, one thing remains constant: the centrality of our communities. At the heart of Kenya’s healthcare delivery system, the establishment of Primary Care Networks marks a monumental shift in our approach to healthcare.
These networks are not merely an administrative change; they represent a visionary transformation that embraces the principles of preventive and promotive healthcare.
PCNs play a pivotal role in weaving the intricate threads of our healthcare system. They are instrumental in integrating care across all levels, making our healthcare delivery more efficient and accessible.
But their impact goes beyond logistics. PCNs embody inclusivity, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, has access to quality healthcare. They establish a robust emergency referral system, a lifeline in times of crisis.
Collaboration is the cornerstone of PCNs. They facilitate the sharing of resources among different levels of care, enabling a more equitable distribution of critical resources. Moreover, PCNs are data driven, ensuring that decisions are not just timely but also well-informed.
This strategic shift aligns perfectly with the four pillars of Universal Health Coverage (Human Resource for Health, Digital Health, Commodity Security and Health Care Financing).
It embodies a strategic manoeuvre aimed at lightening the burden of disease and enhancing the overall well-being of every Kenyan. PCNs, by offering an efficient, integrated and affordable healthcare system, are heralding a new era in healthcare delivery.
The forthcoming Mashujaa Day celebration in Kericho county themed 'Universal Health Coverage', will serve as a platform to launch Smart Primary Care Networks. This is a testament to the government's commitment to the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda on health, with a steadfast focus on 'Afya Bora Mashinani (better healthcare at the grassroots)'.
Our journey towards accessible, available, affordable and acceptable quality healthcare has seen remarkable progress. The recruitment of 100,000 Community Health Promoters (CHPs) and comprehensive assessment of more than 14,000 healthcare facilities nationwide form the bedrock of data-driven approach. This approach underpins evidence-based policy formulation, meticulous planning and thoughtful healthcare programming, all geared towards achieving UHC.
Through partnerships with county governments and development partners, significant strides are being made to operationalise all 315 primary care networks across the country. With two counties, Kisumu and Garissa, leading the way, and more following suit.
To fortify these efforts the Ministry of Health has nurtured a team of Trainer of Trainers—248—who are poised to steer the digital development of model PCNs in all 47 counties. Their mission is to strengthen the healthcare system and expand primary care across counties, creating a more resilient healthcare infrastructure.
In the relentless pursuit of extending healthcare access, efforts are also underway to expand Community Health Units to reach a target of 9,100 units. These CHUs serve as the frontline of healthcare delivery, ensuring that quality care is within reach of every Kenyan, even in the remotest corners of the nation.
The establishment of PCNs and the expansion of CHUs signify more than just structural changes, they herald a seismic shift towards UHC. This underscores an unwavering commitment to building a healthier nation.
But the journey doesn’t end here. To truly achieve the vision of equitable healthcare for all, every citizen must be proactive and involved in preventive measures, including check-ups and cultivating healthy habits.
Principal Secretary, State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards
