This archive report was first published on 20 June 2020.
Kenya's frontline public healthcare workers are set to receive critical psychosocial support to help them navigate the daily challenges of serving during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to a recent initiative, the healthcare workers will also receive training on case management and the application and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs).
Financed by the Kenya COVID-19 Fund and Equity Group Foundation (EGF) at a cost of Kshs 85 million, the year-long intervention aims to equip healthcare workers across the country to serve effectively in the frontlines of the pandemic.
Kenya Medical Association (KMA) will implement the program in collaboration with other healthcare professional associations, including the National Nurses Association of Kenya (NNAK), Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists' Union (KMPDU), and the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya.
Dr. Elizabeth Gitau, CEO of KMA, emphasized the importance of the program, stating, 'As KMA, the health and wellbeing of our members have been a focus of our interventions. Many frontline workers are ill-prepared to face a global health emergency. These factors can lead to anxiety, depression, insomnia, and a lessening of the professional demeanour and skill which our medical professionals need to care for the public.'
The initiative aims to reach 50,000 health workers of all cadres to boost confidence and enhance professional acumen in dealing with the COVID-19 health crisis.
