Attachement fees for KMTC students now scrapped

In summary: Attachment fees for KMTC students have been eliminated.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale announced the removal of mandatory practical attachment fees for students at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC).

During the 8th Biennial Kenya Medical Training College Scientific Conference held at KMTC’s headquarters in Nairobi, the CS stated that the fees charged at Level Six hospitals, including Kenyatta Hospital and Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital, will be abolished.

“One of the concerns raised by the leadership, board, and management was the fees for clinical services and rotations that our students incur when they visit public hospitals. This will no longer be the case,” the CS explained.

Duale pointed out the inconsistencies in attachment fees, noting that they vary significantly between institutions. For instance, some hospitals charge Sh10,000, while others, like Garissa County, charge Sh1,000 or Sh2,000.

He questioned the rationale behind these fees, highlighting that students contribute to healthcare services during their attachments.

For hospitals outside his direct control, CS Duale pledged to consult with the Council of Governors. However, he assured that he would take direct action to standardize fees at Level Six hospitals to promote trust and order in the health sector.

This decision addresses a long-standing issue for KMTC students, who typically pay between Sh2,000 and Sh10,000 or more for attachments at public hospitals. These fees often pose a financial burden for students from low-income backgrounds, who also face additional costs for accommodation and transportation.

Duale also reiterated the Ministry of Health’s full support for KMTC, while warning against the unchecked proliferation of health-related courses nationwide.

He emphasized that KMTC must remain a center of excellence dedicated to producing skilled, service-ready professionals.

“KMTC will not issue credentials without competence,” the Cabinet Secretary stated.

“We will not permit institutions to contribute to the problem. All training programs must align with the evolving needs of public health in Kenya.” He warned.