Advancing critical care medicine in Kenya through the adoption of technology, specifically artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation, is crucial for improving patient outcomes and enhancing the efficiency of the healthcare systems. Prof Lukoye Atwoli, Dean of Aga Khan University (AKU) Medical College, East Africa, emphasized this during his address at the Nairobi Critical Care Congress hosted by the Aga Khan University.
“The need for technological advancements in critical care medicine highlights the potential of AI and innovation to transform healthcare delivery in Kenya. By embracing these advancements, Kenya can not only improve patient outcomes but also build a more efficient and resilient healthcare system capable of meeting the challenges of the future,” said Prof Lukoye.
According to a study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) which looked at the organisation, staffing and resources of critical care units in Kenya, states that as of 2020, Kenya had an estimated 537 ICU beds and 256 ventilators with only 22 of the 47 counties having at least one critical care unit. However, data on the functionality of these units and distribution within the different health sectors is still limited.
Prof Reena Shah, Chair, Department of Internal Medicine, AKU Medical College, East Africa and Consultant Infectious Diseases Specialist at Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi said, “Critical care units, which provide intensive care treatment and monitoring for patients with life-threatening conditions, must be well-equipped and staffed to handle the increasing demand not only in Kenya but the region. This calls for the development of robust infrastructure, including the construction of specialized units, advanced medical technologies and innovations.”
This year’s theme of the Critical Care Congress, “Navigating emerging technologies in the innovation age,” touches on critical care and its connections with most adult medical specialities including cardiovascular medicine, renal medicine, pulmonology, gastroenterology, nutrition, thrombosis, endocrinology, infectious diseases, neurology, surgery, amongst others.
“The Nairobi Critical Care Congress offers in-depth scientific presentations by leading experts covering the broad spectrum of acute critical care and touches on the subject of ethical practice in critical care including end-of-life decision-making, and organ donation,” said Dr Martin Musumbi, Assistant Professor, AKU Medical College, East Africa and Medical Director, Critical Care, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi.
The Nairobi Critical Care Congress is designed to enhance patient care from primary care delivery in the emergency units through to high dependency and intensive care. The Congress brought together leading experts, clinicians, researchers and innovators to explore the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in critical care.
