Kilifi Women Representative Gertrude Mbeyu has called for improved healthcare services in the county, urging medical staff to uphold professionalism and warning against negligence fueled by mobile phone distractions.
In a stern warning to healthcare workers, Mbeyu condemned the growing trend of medical staff being glued to their phones during working hours.
“A patient is rushed to hospital, but instead of being served urgently, the doctor or nurse is scrolling on their phone or chatting on social media,” she lamented.
She narrated a personal experience where her brother, injured in a motorbike accident, waited unattended at a county hospital as a nurse remained preoccupied on her phone.
“This is unacceptable. I will recommend to the governor that all healthcare providers leave their phones at the reception when they get to work. In case of emergency, let them use the hospital phones,” she said.
Mbeyu stressed the importance of compassionate service, especially in sensitive departments like maternity.
“Do not slap our mothers. Smile at patients. Treat them with dignity,” she urged.
She called for better public relations in hospitals, encouraging doctors and nurses to prioritize patient welfare and use official channels for work communication.
Mbeyu was speaking during the official opening of the new Equity Afya branch in Kilifi town. She welcomed the facility as a vital addition to the county’s overstretched health system.
Also read: Equity Afya opens new branch in Kilifi
She emphasized the need for the clinic to operate 24 hours a day to serve the growing population, especially in emergencies involving women and children.
“We want to see how Equity Afya Kilifi will help our people. If some services are not available here, they should be referred to our county hospital,” said Mbeyu. “We request that you work 24/7 because no one knows when they will fall ill.”
She cited common cases where women in labour or children experiencing night fevers are unable to access timely care due to overcrowding in public hospitals.
“If county hospitals are full, this facility should be able to take them in. Help our people,” she appealed.
Mbeyu also highlighted the tragic loss of a former teacher who collapsed at the county offices and died after being rushed to a closed hospital, underlining the urgency of 24-hour services. She called on private facilities like Equity Afya to broaden their insurance coverage to include options like SHA, noting that not everyone can afford high-cost providers.
The new Equity Afya clinic is expected to ease the pressure and offer an alternative for those seeking timely and quality healthcare.