Understanding the Policy Environment for Cardiovascular Diseases in Kenya
In recent years, the global health community has increasingly recognized the importance of primary health care (PHC) in the prevention, control, and management of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Despite this, a recent study on the policy environment in Kenya reveals significant gaps in integrating CVD services at the PHC level. This blog aims to help practitioners improve their skills by implementing research outcomes and encouraging further investigation into this critical area.
Key Findings from the Research
The study reviewed 17 policy documents and conducted interviews with key informants to assess the alignment of Kenyan policies with global health initiatives. The findings highlight several issues:
- Most policy documents related to CVD prevention and management were developed post-2013, following global initiatives.
- There is no standalone policy for CVD management at the PHC level in Kenya.
- The integration of CVD prevention and control into PHC is not explicitly mentioned in existing policy documents.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners, these findings underscore the need for a more robust policy framework that integrates CVD management into PHC. Here are some steps practitioners can take:
- Advocate for Policy Change: Engage with policymakers to emphasize the importance of integrating CVD services into PHC.
- Implement Global Best Practices: Utilize global initiatives like the WHO's HEARTS technical package, which includes healthy lifestyle counseling and evidence-based treatment protocols.
- Promote Community Engagement: Work with community health workers to increase awareness and screening for CVD risk factors.
Encouraging Further Research
The gaps identified in this study present an opportunity for further research. Practitioners and researchers should focus on:
- Evaluating the effectiveness of existing CVD interventions at the PHC level.
- Exploring innovative models for integrating CVD management into PHC.
- Assessing the impact of community-based interventions on CVD outcomes.
Conclusion
While Kenya has made strides in addressing non-communicable diseases, the integration of CVD services into PHC remains a critical gap. By advocating for policy changes and implementing best practices, practitioners can play a pivotal role in improving CVD outcomes in Kenya.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Policy environment for prevention, control and management of cardiovascular diseases in primary health care in Kenya.
