Are you ready to discover how Kenya is revolutionizing surgical care? The Perioperative Theatre Technologists Association of Kenya (POTTA-K) and the Kenya Health Professionals Oversight Authority (KHPOA) are joining forces in a nationwide initiative. Their mission? To elevate the quality of perioperative training and finally grant professional recognition to perioperative technicians.
In a recent joint inspection, POTTA-K's National Organising Secretary, Grace Nishila Karanja, and KHPOA's CEO, Dr. Jackson Kioko, took a close look at health-training institutions that offer perioperative and related courses. Their goal was clear: to ensure these institutions comply with the necessary standards.
This collaborative effort aims to enforce national training standards, ensuring that skills laboratories are fully equipped and that quality assurance is consistent across all programs. Grace emphasized the importance of colleges adhering strictly to KHPOA requirements, warning against the use of unqualified personnel to train perioperative students. She highlighted that quality training is directly linked to patient safety. But here's where it gets controversial...
Dr. Kioko stressed the significance of a mandatory 12-month clinical attachment, believing it's crucial for students to gain early exposure to the operating room environment and develop competence. He also confirmed KHPOA's dedication to ensuring all training institutions meet the minimum standards before accepting students.
Beyond training, POTTA-K is actively campaigning for the formal recognition of perioperative technicians. They argue that these professionals are indispensable for safe surgeries and overall hospital efficiency. Grace is urging the Kenyan government and key stakeholders to support better pay, improved working conditions, and clear career paths for this vital cadre.
“For months, we have tirelessly championed the recognition of this critical profession,” she stated.
The association believes that official recognition will standardize surgical practices, reduce hospital-acquired infections, and support the country's Universal Health Coverage agenda by addressing staff shortages and youth unemployment.
“Formalisation will validate an existing workforce, enhance patient safety, and open hundreds of job opportunities for young Kenyans,” she added.
As inspections continue, POTTA-K and KHPOA are committed to strengthening training standards and elevating the perioperative profession. Their ultimate goal? To ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality surgical care for all Kenyans.
What do you think? Do you agree with the need for formal recognition of perioperative technicians? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
