Doctors working in Bungoma County have a reason to smile after inking a deal with the county government.
This follows an agreement between the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation Dr. Andrew Wamalwa and representatives from health worker unions to expedite the promotion and redesignation of health workers who have been stagnant in their current positions for a long time.
During a meeting at the Bungoma County Referral Hospital (BCRH) Dr. Wamalwa and the union leaders resolved to speed up the process to enable health workers to progress within the employment structure and receive appropriate compensation for their services.
Dr. Wamalwa highlighted that between 2022 and August 2023, a total of 569 health workers from various cadres received promotions, with nurses accounting for the highest number at 326.
“We have forwarded 381 names to the County Human Resource Advisory Committee (CHIRAC) for verification. If there are no hitches, these names will be submitted to the County Public Service Board by next week to initiate the promotion and redesignation process,” stated Dr. Wamalwa.
On her part, Dr. Magrina Mayama, Chief Officer for Health, emphasised their commitment to fostering a positive work environment for health workers, which includes opportunities for career advancement.
“A happy and satisfied workforce translates into better service delivery for our patients. This includes ensuring you are well-compensated for fulfilling your duties,” she remarked.
The union representatives presented a list of 13 critical concerns, which were comprehensively addressed by the county executive.
These concerns, includes another 47 health workers who are to be promoted bringing the total number to 428.