NAIROBI – In Kenya, the demand for occupational therapists in public health facilities is rising, yet there remains a significant shortage of professionals in this critical field. Evans Obaigwa, President of the Kenya Occupational Therapists Association (KOTA), highlighted the pressing need for more therapists to serve the growing number of individuals with disabilities requiring specialized care.
According to Kenya News Agency, Speaking at Murang’a Level 5 Hospital during a medical assessment event for persons with disabilities, Obaigwa emphasized that both national and county governments must prioritize the hiring of more occupational therapists. He pointed out that the current number of therapists employed in public and private health facilities is insufficient to meet the needs of those requiring their services.
“Employed therapists in both public and private health facilities are very few compared to the number of people who need their services,” Obaigwa stated. He urged for the employment of adequate therapists in each facility to ensure accessibility to those in need.
The event, which also included the donation of assistive devices to disabled residents, highlighted the crucial role of occupational therapists in assessing and following up on patients’ medical needs, often requiring home visits to provide effective care.
Obaigwa further noted the need for the government to invest in the necessary space and equipment for occupational therapy clinics. “Occupational therapy clinics need special equipment that is used to treat patients, and the apparatus needs to be provided to make the treatment effective,” he said, calling for governmental allocation of resources towards acquiring these essential tools.
The lack of occupational therapists has left many disabled individuals without medical attention, relying only on free medical camps organized by various organizations. Obaigwa emphasized the importance of expanding these services to all levels of medical facilities, including dispensaries.
In addition to the need for more therapists, Obaigwa called on the government to provide funds for purchasing and distributing assistive devices to those in need. He highlighted the financial challenges faced by many disabled individuals who cannot afford assistive devices like wheelchairs, despite tax exemptions.
The event saw over 400 people assessed and provided with assistive devices, a three-day initiative by KOTA in collaboration with other organizations. This initiative underscores the urgent need for increased support and resources in the field of occupational therapy to better serve Kenya’s disabled population.