This archive report was first published on 17 May 2020.
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to spread, private hospitals in Kenya are facing a different kind of challenge – financial difficulties. The economic downturn has resulted in a decline in patients and the suspension of elective surgeries, which have significantly impacted the hospitals' income.
Several private hospitals, including Aga Khan University Hospital and MP Shah Hospital, have communicated plans for pay cuts to their employees. According to a memo signed by MP Shah Board Chairman Manoj Shah, the pay cut will be effective from May 2020 and the gross salary will be adjusted downwards by the respective percentage, with a review in three months.
However, not all hospitals are taking the same approach. The Nairobi Hospital has revised the working hours for its employees, requiring them to work 45 hours a week, up from 40 hours. The hospital has also asked employees to be flexible and adapt to changing work arrangements and business exigencies.
The move by the Nairobi Hospital has not been well-received, with the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) moving to court to stop the changes. In a signed affidavit, the Nairobi KMPDU branch secretary, Dr Thuranira Kaugiria, stated that the facility is adamant that those who fail to comply with the new policy could face adverse action, including citation, disciplinary action, victimisation, and termination.
Justice Stephen Radido has suspended the move by the hospital and slated the matter for mention on June 2. The issue of money is now taking centre-stage, with health workers from 17 cadres set to commence a strike on Monday over allowances.
