Today, the Kilifi County Referral Hospital hosted a delegation from the Kenya Board of Mental Health, led by Dr. Daniel Kokonya, the board’s chairman. Dr. David Mulewa, the Chief Officer of Health for Kilifi County, warmly welcomed the team and organized their tour of the hospital’s mental health facilities.
This visit is part of the board’s ongoing nationwide evaluation of mental health units and facilities, as mandated by Section 5 (d) of the Mental Health (Amendment) Act 2022. This section requires county governments to deliver high-quality mental health care and rehabilitation services within their healthcare establishments.
The purpose of the inspection is to ensure that the Kilifi County Referral Hospital fulfills the specified standards for mental health care, which are detailed in the Mental Health Act. It involves assessing the availability of qualified mental health professionals, access to necessary medications and therapies, and compliance with ethical treatment guidelines.
This visit marks a positive advancement for mental health care in Kilifi County. By ensuring that the referral hospital meets the established standards, the board can contribute to ensuring that residents have the accessibility to the necessary care they require.