Functions Of Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA)

Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) is a state corporation in Kenya that is responsible for the procurement, storage, and distribution of medical supplies, equipment, and drugs to public health facilities across the country. KEMSA plays a critical role in ensuring that Kenyans have access to quality healthcare services by providing affordable and reliable medical supplies and equipment. This article will provide an overview of the functions of KEMSA, its leadership, and how it can be contacted for assistance.

KEMSA operates under the guidance of the National Government and serves as the primary procurement and distribution agency for medical supplies, equipment, and drugs in the country. The agency aims to promote efficient and effective procurement, storage, and distribution of medical commodities to ensure equitable access to healthcare services.

The authority is responsible for procuring and distributing medical supplies and equipment to public hospitals, health centers, and dispensaries across the country. KEMSA also provides support to various health programs, such as the National Tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and Malaria Control Programs.

To achieve its mandate, KEMSA has established a robust procurement system that ensures that all procurement activities are transparent, accountable, and adhere to the set guidelines and procedures. The agency also has modern warehousing facilities that ensure proper storage of medical commodities to maintain their quality and integrity.

Functions Of Kenya Medical Supplies Authority

The Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) performs several functions in the procurement, storage, and distribution of medical supplies, equipment, and drugs to public health facilities across Kenya. Some of the functions of KEMSA include:

1. Procurement: KEMSA is responsible for procuring medical commodities, including drugs, vaccines, medical equipment, and other supplies, on behalf of the government of Kenya.
2. Quality assurance: KEMSA ensures that all medical supplies procured meet the required quality standards through rigorous inspection, testing, and certification.
3. Warehousing and inventory management: KEMSA operates modern warehousing facilities that provide adequate storage for medical commodities. The agency manages inventory levels, monitors expiration dates, and ensures proper storage and handling of medical supplies.
4. Distribution: KEMSA distributes medical supplies to public health facilities across Kenya, including hospitals, health centers, and dispensaries. The agency also supports emergency response operations by providing medical supplies to disaster areas.
5. Information management: KEMSA collects, collates, and disseminates information on the availability, quality, and distribution of medical commodities to stakeholders, including the government of Kenya, development partners, and other interested parties.
6. Capacity building: KEMSA provides training and technical support to public health facilities and stakeholders to enhance their capacity to manage medical supplies and equipment.
7. Research and development: KEMSA conducts research and development activities to enhance the quality, safety, and effectiveness of medical commodities in Kenya.
8. Partnerships and collaborations: KEMSA partners with development partners, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders to enhance its capacity and improve the quality of its services.