Kenya Health Sector Referral Strategy 2014–2018

Abstract

The overall goal of the Kenya Health Sector Referral Strategy is to improve client access to referral. The objectives of the strategy are to realise improved capacity of health providers to identify clients who require referral, develop protocols that will lead to referral system efficiency and effectiveness, and promote and facilitate information and communication technology (ICT) to manage referrals, improve care, enhance capacity of the referral system in Kenya, provide communication and related equipment, and promote research and innovation for referrals. The Kenya Health Sector Referral Strategy provides the overall policy and strategic framework for operation of the referral system. Kenya’s overall government policy direction is outlined in its Vision 2030. The health sector is also guided by the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the Kenya Health Policy 2012–2030. The policy direction is translated into 5-year medium-term strategic objectives outlined in the Second Medium-Term Plan (MTP) 2013–2017 for the overall government and the Kenya Health Sector Strategic and Investment Plan (2013– 2017) for the health sector. The referral strategy will guide the sector in building an effective referral system that responds to the health needs of the Kenyan population, thereby contributing to the realisation of Vision 2030, MDGs, and universal health coverage