The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) has issued a 14-day strike notice over what they said is failure by the government to implement the 2024 return-to-work agreement.
Among the key provisions of the agreement that are yet to be fulfilled include the negotiation of a comprehensive Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), promotions and job reclassifications, and confirmation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) staff into permanent and pensionable terms.
Others are, comprehensive medical cover for all clinical officers and conversion of all short-term contractual employment for clinical officers to permanent and pensionable terms.
KUCO National Chairman, Peterson Wachira, faulted the Ministry of Health, Governors and County Executive Committee Members in charge of health for ignoring Article 43 of the Constitution.
The Union Secretary General (SG), George Gibore, lamented that Clinical Officers are being undermined by the Social Health Authority (SHA) through exclusion from offering services under its framework.
“The discrimination of the Officers hinders the practice of clinical officers and causes suffering among Kenyans, who are denied essential services provided by them. Many are forced to pay for health care services despite being registered members of SHA exposing them to financial strain,” said Gibore.
The Union also lamented that Clinical Officers have been forced to undergo double licensing and termed illegal the registration of their facilities by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Board.
They demanded immediate recognition of all healthcare providers and facilities registered under the Clinical Officers Council.
However, the Union said they are open to constructive dialogue with the government and other stakeholders to resolve their issues.
– Gesimba Gloria and Mgeni Kujeza
Email your news TIPS to Editor@nairobilawmonthly.com, and to advertise with us, call +254715061658 anytime of the day
