The Embu chapter of the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) is concerned about some teachers going for medicinal bushes, stems, and roots during working hours to seek alternative therapies because the Social Health Authority (SHA) programme hasn’t worked out.
Teachers are turning to herbal medicine as a last resort after the union voiced their dissatisfaction with their inability to obtain medical care under their health insurance plan.
KUPPET has warned of potential industrial action if the SHA system’s systemic failures are not urgently addressed and teachers’ access to proper healthcare remains hindered.
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“The only private hospital in Embu County that had been providing services to teachers under our health scheme has withdrawn its services due to unpaid claims. This has left teachers without reliable healthcare options, forcing many to seek alternative treatments such as traditional herbal remedies,” KUPPET Embu County Secretary Jacob Karura said.
“The situation is compounded by the poor state of public hospitals in the county, which often lack essential medical supplies, including basic drugs. As a result, teachers are unable to receive adequate medical attention, leading them to search for herbal remedies in the bushes and diverting their focus away from their teaching duties.”
The union urged urgent intervention to resolve the issue, warning that they are considering going on strike if the situation remains unchanged.
By Joseph Mambili
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