Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has announced comprehensive reforms across Kenya’s public hospitals following what he termed a “systems failure” at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), which led to the death of Edward Maingi Ndegwa.
Speaking at KNH on Monday, Duale expressed condolences to the Ndegwa family, calling the incident “unacceptable” and vowing to address systemic lapses in public healthcare facilities.
Key Reform Measures
- Nationwide Security Audits: All national referral hospitals will undergo full security audits.
- Enhanced Surveillance: Improved CCTV coverage in sensitive hospital areas to bolster accountability.
- Stricter Visitor Controls: Mandatory identity and vehicle details for all visitors, including police officers escorting patients.
- Anonymous Call Systems: Introduction of monitored call lines to enhance security and transparency.
Duale also highlighted the plight of 443 patients stranded in hospitals, either abandoned or unable to settle bills. The Ministry of Health has formed a rapid response team to reconnect these patients with their families and support those without homes.
“We are working to restore compassion and dignity in our hospitals,” Duale said, urging Kenyans to support the ongoing reforms and remain patient as confidence in public healthcare is rebuilt.
These measures, he confirmed, will be enforced nationwide to ensure the protection and dignity of all patients.
