By Eddah Waithaka
During a press conference held on Wednesday, January 29, Director-General for Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth, sought to relieve public concerns (ARV) medications. He confirmed that the government has ensured a steady supply of ARVs, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining accessibility for those in need.
These concerns about a potential crisis among HIV/AIDS patients follow US President Donald Trump’s recent directive to suspend HIV drug shipments to US Agency for International Development (USAID)-supported countries.
Photo courtesy: MOH X page.
Dr. Amoth recognized the enduring alliance between Kenya and the United States, emphasizing its vital contribution to enhancing HIV programs, health systems.
The Ministry of Health is also working to simplify the process of empanelment and pre- authorization for specialist healthcare services in order to improve access and efficiency under the Social Health Authority (SHA). Dr. Amoth indicated that the Ministry, in collaboration with regulatory bodies, is refining the approval process for specialized medical procedures to ensure that patients get prompt care without facing unnecessary administrative hurdles.
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“We are aligning specialist approvals with the Scopes of Practice defined by the Ministry, ensuring that only qualified specialists in recognized specialties authorize necessary medical interventions. This will improve efficiency while maintaining accountability in healthcare service provision,โ Dr. Amoth said.
The Ministry is working on a Quality of Care Policy and Bill designed to improve healthcare regulations and elevate standards for patient safety and service delivery. Dr. Amoth identifies the neglect of mother-to-child transmission of HIV as a significant factor hindering the goal of achieving 95% viral suppression.
Dr. Amoth also urged all members of the community, family members, to make sure that those who are being treated go to the facilities to get their medications, because there are medications and there are health workers to provide that service.
He also noted the role of MOH is to ensure that patients who need treatment are protected and that they continue to receive that treatment without interruption.
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