Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa has expressed her condolences following the tragic death of Desree Moraa, a medical intern at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital.
Moraa was found dead, by suicide, near the hospital where she had worked for only four weeks after transferring from Nakuru Level 5 Hospital.
Desree Moraa’s death
Circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear, but a suicide note left by Moraa suggests she was struggling with issues related to her work environment. She was last seen leaving the hospital after completing an exhausting 36-hour shift.
In a statement released on Wednesday, CS Barasa conveyed her shock and deep sorrow at the loss of such a young and dedicated healthcare professional.
“It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that we mourn the untimely passing of Dr Desree Moraa, a young, dedicated healthcare professional with so much potential but whose life was tragically cut short. As a medical intern, she had already touched so many lives with her compassion and commitment to the healthcare process,” CS Barasa said.
The Health CS further emphasized that Moraa’s death is a stark reminder of the unseen struggles faced by many in the medical profession.
“Her passing is a stark reminder of the silent struggles that many, including those in the healthcare profession, often endure. As a frontline caregiver, she was devoted to improving the lives of others, yet we are reminded that even those who provide care sometimes face unseen battles of their own,” Barasa added.
Offering her condolences on behalf of the Ministry of Health, Barasa extended support to Moraa’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
In honour of Moraa, Barasa revealed that the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with county governments, will implement robust workplace mental wellness programs targeting healthcare workers across the country.
Mental support
These initiatives aim to provide greater mental health support and ensure that healthcare professionals facing challenges have access to the necessary resources.
“This tragedy calls upon us to renew our commitment to addressing the growing mental health burden in our country. In honour of her memory, the Ministry of Health, in conjunction with County Governments, is implementing robust workplace mental wellness programs to ensure that support systems are strengthened and that those facing challenges don’t feel alone,” she concluded.
