Perceptions of Kenyan healthcare workers: Assessing national and county governments' pandemic response

Abstract

Background: During the coronavirus-19 pandemic (COVID-19), governments tailored various containment measures and the perspectives of health care workers (HCWs) directly affected by these policies are therefore indispensable. The purpose of this study was to investigate perceptions of both the National and Kiambu County governments’ responses to the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of HCWs. Methods: We conducted a mixed-methods cross-sectional study using a semi-structured questionnaire with 438 HCWs in Kiambu County, Kenya, from March 11 to August 12, 2021. Qualitative inductive and deductive data analyses was used in this research. Results: The majority of respondents were females (n = 276, 64.5%), middle aged (n = 170, 38.8%) and were caregivers (n = 322, 73.5%). Nine themes emerged: i) Adequate government response; ii) Laxity in public compliance; iii) Lack of healthcare resources; iv) Aggressive initial policy; v) A misinformed public; vi) Slow and inadequate response; vii) Optimism; viii) Decayed adherence to protocols; and ix) Breakdown of systems. Conclusion: Although HCWs had a variety of viewpoints, both county and national governments received similar feedback. Most HCWs lauded the governments’ early and sufficient actions as well as their confidence over the pandemic’s future. However, there is still room for development. Concerning factors cited by HCWs included public apathy, false information, a lack of resources, a delayed first response, and systemic failure. HCWs should be included in government processes, such as healthcare budget allocation and guaranteeing prompt payment, to build trust in public institutions and prepare for future health crises. In addition, moderating social media, revising policies, and advancing public understanding are all necessary for combating public misinformation going forward. By putting these suggestions into practice, we can allay the grievances of HCWs and reduce in- equities in response to health emergencies not just in Kenya, but similar low-to-middle income countries.