Government pushes safety measures to protect newborns, children

Kenya has rolled out new measures to strengthen its patient safety systems as part of efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage, with a focus on safeguarding newborns and children.

The key initiatives include the Community Health Strategy, the Primary Healthcare Fund and the electronic Community Heath Information System(eCHIS), which are designed to improve early detection, prevent medical errors and enhance accountability withing the health sector.

Speaking during the World Patient Safety day Symposium, the Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, underscored the importance of embedding patient safety from birth through early childhood.

She noted that while in progress has been made in reducing child morality, preventable cause such as birth asphyxia, premature birth and infection continue to threaten the lives of young children.

“Patient safety is not a checklist but a shared value,” Muthoni said, urging stronger collaboration among healthcare workers, institution and partners to ensure quality and safe care.

She added that protecting newborns and children demonstrates the resilience of Kenya’s health system and marks a critical step towards the realization of Universal Health Coverage.