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{
    "id": 1518309,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1518309/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 192,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Kibwana",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 277,
        "legal_name": "Kibwana Kivutha",
        "slug": "kibwana-kivutha"
    },
    "content": "I have two statements on health matters. The first one is on mental health and work conditions of medical interns. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I rise pursuant to Standing Order No.53(1) to seek a statement from the Standing Committee on Health regarding the tragic death by suicide of Frances Njuki, medical intern at Thika Level 5 Hospital in November, 2024. The incident came just two months after the death of Dr. Desree Moraa, who until her death by suicide was a medical intern at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital in Kiambu County. This highlights the urgent need to address rising mental health concerns and toxic work conditions faced by medical interns in Kenya. The deaths of these young medical professionals are not only individual tragedies, but also a stark reminder of systematic issues within our healthcare system. It is imperative that the Senate takes swift action to ensure the safety, well-being, and dignity of all those who dedicate their lives to serving our nation’s health. In the statement, the committee should- (1) Investigate the working conditions and schedules of medical interns at public hospitals, specifically addressing claims of excessive working hours and poor working environment. (2) Examine the existing mental health support programmes available for medical professionals, particularly interns and recommend enhancements to those programmes to prevent such tragic outcomes. (3) Assess the role of hospital administration and the Ministry of Health in safeguarding the welfare of medical interns, including measures taken to address the grievances and provide mentorship. (4) Provide a detailed report to the policies governing deployment, supervision and work-life balance of medical interns and proposed reforms when necessary. (5) Recommend actionable steps to create a safe and supportive working environment for all medical professionals with a particular force on addressing mental health challenges within the sector."
}