Principal Secretary Kimtai Champions Patient-Centered Care for Quality Healthcare in Kenya

Nairobi, Kenya - 5th April 2024 -  The Principal Secretary for the State Department for Medical Services, Mr. Harry Kimtai, emphasized the government’s commitment to integrating patient-centered care into healthcare delivery strategies during a symposium on patient and family-centered care at the KNH Research and Training Centre.

The PS stressed the imperative for healthcare workers, training institutions, and facilities to prioritize patient-centered care, highlighting dignity, respect, and effective communication as indispensable elements.

Mr. Kimtai outlined eight fundamental principles of patient-centered care and underscored their incorporation into healthcare delivery strategies, particularly in advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) objectives.

Emphasizing the critical importance of treating patients with dignity and respect, involving them in decision-making processes, ensuring humane care, and effective communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers, he reiterated the principles of patient-centered care.

Mr. Kimtai also affirmed the government’s dedication to aligning the new health financing model with these principles, prioritizing the needs of the people as Kenya continues its efforts towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).