Hi Wazuans,

I have read a few posts about Healthcare in Kenya. I have interacted with the healthcare system in Kenya for a while now and thought to give some pointers which i think can help you get value for money in the private hospitals especially.

1.If you go to a hospital and you have to wait for a very long time, chances are you will also be seen in a hurry (since the queue needs to be cleared)

2. Take time to explain the symptoms to a doctor once you get to see one. When and if he/she makes a diagnosis, always ask what you have been diagnosed with. Ask about any test you are sent for. Why its being done and what it means. Ask about the drugs prescribed. You can seek more info at the pharmacy on drugs.

3. The doctor you find at the casualty/A&E of any hospital is likely to be a GP or a masters student at KNH.. A few will have finished their Masters degrees already. They know what they are doing but are also faced with dilemmas in diagnosis and treatment. Do your own research on your ailment. Do not be afraid to seek clarification with them on something you read-they may not like it but hey, this is 2010.

4. Never shy away from seeking a second opinion. It is your right.

5. In the private hospitals, before something is billed, inquire on the cost first. For example, why should a flu (homa) cost you more than Kshs 2,500. Remember even if they are non profit making, they have projects that need completion.

6. If you have a prescription for more than 3 drugs, it is likely to be polypharmacy. Unless you have a chronic ailment. Be always aware why you are taking a drug....

7. If you are admitted, always look through your bill before you pay/leave. Sometimes hospitals and doctors charge for services that were not given...A doctor may for example charge for a visit he did not do. You may be charged for a box of gloves you are sure was not used on you. Even if you are insured, check. At the end of the day if you surpass your limit, the insurance company will just stop paying.

8. Flu (Homa) most times is viral and does not require antibiotics. When a flu is bacterial, there will be fever and the nasal discharge is likely to be coloured, not just plain. Let me not elaborate this

9. You always get a better deal seeing a specialist first hand. Especially as regards children. For example, if a child is sick, take then to a peadiatrician first. Diagnosis is faster, they see these things more often. Like now, the major hospitals are charging an equivalent of the same fee a paed will charge. So why dont you just pay for better service anyway?

10. Always remember that you, as a client and a customer have a right to know everything being done to you in hospital. Like anywhere else, even in hospital, you can demand value for money.


We all need doctors and hospitals at some point.... so the best we can do is get value for money. [/color][/size][/size][/size][/size]