SHARPENING THE SHARP END, SENSITIZING THE BLUNT END!
Changing health outcomes requires action at all levels – upstream, midstream, and downstream aimed at mproving the provider-consumer relationship and the quality of services.
Today, the County Department of Health and Sanitation sensitized health workers drawn from Mosop and Nandi Hills Sub Counties with the aim of ensuring improved access to quality healthcare services.
Speaking at the event, the County Director for Health Dr David Bungei said, “As we work together, I urge everyone to share their experiences, challenges and best practices. By learning and supporting each other, we can improve our pursuit of excellence, as our combined efforts will undoubtedly lead to better health care service delivery and a more efficient public service.”
The sensitization enabled a reflective thinking process among the health care providers, allowing a frank discussion, irrespective of the type of health worker.
The result was a renewed commitment to work, with health providers expressing better motivation and willingness to examine their own practices critically in an effort to improve the quality of care. The participatory process also enabled the providers to identify many constraints in the provision of adequate health services and how these affected their work in general and their relationship with clients, and to develop practical plans.
Sharpening the sharp end and sensitizing the blunt end are two complementary approaches to improving patient safety in the healthcare industry. By focusing on improving the skills, knowledge, and expertise of frontline workers and raising awareness among administrative and support staff about the impact their decisions and actions have on patient care, healthcare organizations can create a culture of safety that benefits everyone. By involving all our staff members in quality improvement initiatives, establishing clear lines of communication, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement, the department of health will work towards the common goal of providing safe and effective care to all patients.