Health
Nakuru County department of health has embarked on promoting support groups since they play a crucial role in managing non-communicable diseases like hypertension and diabetes.
The county Executive for health Roselyn Mungai today while addressing the Subukia support group at the Sub County Hospital during their monthly Hypertension and Diabetes support meeting said they provide a safe, and supportive environment for individuals to share their experience.
Commending the support group for their dedication to the monthly meetings she said they assist in the learning of coping strategies, and members gain valuable information from healthcare professionals. ”By connecting with others facing similar challenges, patients can reduce feelings of isolation, increase their motivation to adhere to treatment plans, and improve their overall quality of life,” says Ms Mungai.
A health worker addressing the Subukia Support group
The meeting, which saw a total of 55 patients in attendance, provided essential healthcare services to individuals managing hypertension, diabetes, or both conditions. All attendees had their blood pressure and sugar levels monitored, while those with high readings received immediate care from health clinicians.
In addition to routine check-ups, the support group was also offered eye screenings, identifying six individuals in need of cataract surgery. To ensure comprehensive care, 45 patients were screened for tuberculosis as well. Ms Mungai said the initiative underscores the county’s commitment to strengthening healthcare through accessible, community-based services.
However, she noted that while support groups have proven to be invaluable tools to managing chronic diseases in many parts of the world, their popularity in Africa, and Kenya in particular, is relatively lower. She observed that some of the factors that contribute the unpopularity of support groups include cultural stigma and misconception where some patients fear being shamed or disgraced for having a chronic disease, leading them to avoid seeking help or participating in support groups.
Other causes for people not joining support groups include lack of knowledge since they may not be aware of the benefits of support groups or how to find them, especially in rural areas with limited infrastructure, accessing such groups can be challenging due to distance and transportation costs. The officer stated that by domiciling the support groups at the health centres accessibility has been made easier for many people and uptake has been impressive since the beginning of the year when they were introduced.
She commended the local health workers for providing adequate care, including support group services. She noted that while the prevalence of support groups is not as widespread as in other parts of the world, there are efforts underway to increase awareness and accessibility to support groups, with the hope of improving the lives of individuals living with chronic diseases in the county.