Under the visionary leadership of H.E Governor Susan Kihika, Nakuru County’s Department of Health is spearheading a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing primary health service delivery and achieving Universal Health Care (UHC). With a commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of its residents, the County is scaling up the establishment of Primary Care Networks in all Sub Counties, marking a significant stride towards accessible and comprehensive healthcare for all.
Chief Officer for Public Health, Joyce Ncece, reaffirmed the County’s dedication to this initiative during a recent forum that convened multidisciplinary teams led by the Sub Counties Health Managers. Ms. Ncece emphasized the pivotal role of primary healthcare, citing prevention as the cornerstone of Governor Susan Kihika’s health agenda. By focusing on preventive measures and early intervention, the County aims to address health issues at their root, ensuring better health outcomes and reducing the burden on secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities.
The establishment of Primary Care Networks across all Sub Counties heralds numerous benefits for the residents of Nakuru County:
Accessibility: By decentralizing healthcare services and bringing them closer to communities, Primary Care Networks ensure that residents have easier access to essential health services. This proximity reduces barriers to care, such as transportation costs and distance, particularly for rural and underserved populations.
Comprehensive Care: Primary Care Networks provide a continuum of care, encompassing preventive services, health promotion, treatment of common illnesses, and management of chronic conditions. This holistic approach addresses the diverse healthcare needs of individuals and families, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
Early Intervention and Disease Prevention: With a focus on prevention, Primary Care Networks prioritize early detection and intervention, thereby reducing the incidence of preventable diseases and complications. Through regular screenings, immunizations, and health education initiatives, the County aims to empower residents to take control of their health and prevent the onset of illness.
Integrated Health Services: By fostering collaboration among healthcare providers and leveraging community resources, Primary Care Networks facilitate the integration of services across various disciplines. This coordination ensures seamless transitions between primary, secondary, and tertiary levels of care, optimizing the efficiency and effectiveness of the healthcare system.
Moreover, the County extends its appreciation to USAID Tujenge Jamii for their invaluable contributions from the pilot phase in Bahati to the full rollout across the county. Their partnership has been instrumental in supporting the implementation of Primary Care Networks, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving sustainable healthcare solutions.
As Nakuru County forges ahead on its journey towards Universal Health Care, the establishment of Primary Care Networks in all Sub Counties represents a pivotal step towards realizing the fundamental right to health for all residents. With a focus on accessibility, comprehensiveness, prevention, and integration, this initiative embodies the County’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for its communities.
