This archive report was first published on 6 July 2019.
Kenya's healthcare system is plagued by a lack of specialized medical facilities for children. According to Homa Bay Woman Representative Gladys Wanga, this is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention.
Speaking out against the current state of affairs, Wanga pointed out that while some Members of Parliament focus on their colleagues' personal belongings, she is advocating for a children's national referral hospital.
Wanga's proposal is not without merit. Children have unique medical conditions that require specialized care, such as cleft palate, heart rhythm disorders, and scoliosis. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to lifelong health problems and a reduced quality of life.
Wanga recommended Pumwani Hospital as a potential site for a children's referral hospital, but emphasized that a hospital solely dedicated to children's health would be more effective.
While some may argue that setting up such a hospital is a daunting task, Wanga remains optimistic. She believes that with goodwill and prioritization from the government, an existing hospital can be converted to a children's referral hospital.
As Wanga noted, 'If the government has the goodwill and prioritises children's health, an existing hospital can be converted to a children's referral hospital.'
Wanga's call to action is clear: prioritize children's health and build a national children's hospital. The consequences of inaction are dire, with children in need of treatment unable to see specialists, their condition worsening, and some even losing their lives.
Published on July 6, 2019, Wanga's proposal is a timely reminder of the need for specialized medical care for children in Kenya.
