The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists’ Union (KMPDU) has issued a stern directive to the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital (KUTRRH), demanding the reinstatement of medical insurance cover for its members within 24 hours. The move follows the abrupt withdrawal of insurance benefits, which the union claims has left healthcare professionals and their dependents exposed to severe financial and health risks.
In a letter addressed to KUTRRH’s Chief Executive Officer, dated December 2, 2024, Dr. Malindi Chao, Secretary of the KMPDU Nairobi Branch, highlighted the detrimental impact of the withdrawn medical insurance cover. “Access to reliable and equitable medical insurance is a fundamental right for our members, ensuring their financial, physical, and emotional safety,” the letter read, underscoring the critical importance of the benefits to both healthcare workers and their families.
The union expressed particular concern over the timing of the policy change, warning that the lack of insurance has hindered the staff’s ability to seek healthcare services for themselves and their dependents. This, the KMPDU argues, not only jeopardizes the welfare of individual workers but also undermines the broader health system, given the crucial role healthcare professionals play in patient care and hospital operations.
In the letter, the KMPDU called for immediate resolution, warning that failure to reinstate the insurance cover would force the union to “advise our members to commence a go-slow.” The union further indicated that this action would serve as a formal notice to prevent future disputes of a similar nature.
