Nurses in Turkana County working at dispensaries will now earn an extra Sh10,000 for every child delivery.
Speaking during the climax of the Nurses’ Week in Lodwar, county executive committee member for health Dr. Joseph Epem said the decision was arrived at after Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai engaged the social health authority to include nurses in dispensaries in the beneficiary list.
Epem said prior to this new directive, only nurses in health centers were receiving the stipend for child deliveries.
Lomorukai expressed his commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of nurses in Turkana through a three-point plan focusing on merit-based promotions, staff recognition and strengthening nursing leadership.
Speaking at the same event, the governor announced plans to automate promotions through the County Public Service Board to ensure deserving healthcare workers progress fairly and on time.
He also committed to introducing an employee award scheme to recognize outstanding and dedicated nurses serving across the county.
The governor further welcomed the establishment of a Directorate of Nursing Services, saying it will strengthen policy coordination, standards and service delivery within the health sector.
Dr. Epem underscored the role of nurses saying they were the ones responsible for handling patients after doctors prescribe medication.
By Peter Gitonga
