Local Healthcare Systems in Kenya

The public health system in Kenya is in dire state often marred with cartels, corruption, strikes by doctors and nurses, inadequate medical supplies, high maternal and child-mortality rates, long waiting times and poor access especially in marginalized areas in northern and eastern Kenya. Despite efforts to transform the healthcare system, no significant progress is evident with the exception of a vibrant private health sector.
Although you may need to dig deeper into your pocket, you are better served in private health facilities than in public ones in Kenya. The Kenyan government needs to get its act together to not only provide universal healthcare for all, but to ensure accessible, affordable and acceptable quality healthcare in its public sector.
Structure of Health System
The structure of health systems is designed in such a way that basic primary care is offered at lower levels while complex cases are being referred on higher levels. From the lowest level, the structure includes:
 

Health dispensaries and privately-owned clinics – Offering outpatient services for minor ailments like colds
Health centers – Catering to cases referred by clinics and dispensaries
Nursing homes and sub-district hospitals – Offering secondary care