Authorities in Gatundu South, Kiambu County, have initiated an investigation into the tragic suicide of a medical intern at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital.
Official reports indicate that the body of Dr. Desree Moraa Obwogi was found hanging from the balcony of a residence near the hospital, where she resided with a friend. READ FULL STORY
Moraa had been employed at the hospital for only four weeks, having recently transferred from Nakuru Level 5 Hospital.
She was last seen after completing a grueling 36-hour shift at the Gatundu facility.
A suicide note indicated that she had been facing significant difficulties, particularly related to her work environment.
Local law enforcement, under the direction of Gatundu South OCPD Stella Cherono, has confirmed the occurrence of this incident, which has ignited discussions regarding the need for reforms within the healthcare sector.
In the wake of her passing, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has voiced concerns regarding the challenging working conditions endured by medical interns.
Issues such as extended working hours, insufficient staffing, and a lack of support have been identified as factors contributing to the mental health struggles experienced by healthcare professionals.
Maina Githinji, Chairman of KMPDU Central Kenya, expressed his discontent over the shortage of doctors and noted that this is not the first instance of a medical intern’s death under similar circumstances.
KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah has called for urgent reforms in the healthcare system to enhance the mental well-being of workers, improve compensation, and rectify exploitative working conditions.
This incident occurs amidst ongoing strikes by healthcare workers advocating for better salaries, medical benefits, and improved working conditions for medical interns and other professionals in the sector.
