Why Kenya Needs a Unified EMT Training System: A Call for Standardization in Emergency Medical Services

Abstract

The Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training system in Kenya is highly fragmented and it is not standardized; therefore, it results in massive differences in the competencies of graduates, and this negatively affects the quality of prehospital care. This commentary seeks to support the policy development of a national and coordinated EMT training system that is in tandem with the Kenya National Qualifications Framework (KNQF) and the objective of the country in ensuring Universal Health Coverage (UHC). One of national evaluations of the major EMT programs (e.g. Certificate in Ambulance Operations, EMT Certificate, EMT Diploma) shows inconsistency in the training (varies within 84 hours and up to two years), lack of uniformity in the credit reduction, and essential absence in life-saving skills units like ALS and traumas (PHTLS/ITLS). Such weaknesses compound the fact that patients have poor outcomes due to their delayed care in times of medical emergencies and poor clinical support, especially in rural communities. We are suggesting such urgent changes as the creation of a national EMS regulatory body, incorporation of uniform curricula and simulation-based training, and introduction of continuous professional development (CPD) practices. In case they are implemented, the proposed reforms would standardize the EMT training, increase human resource quality, and eventually substantially raise emergency survival rates throughout Kenya.