Vision in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic: A call to innovate, survive and thrive
The advent of the Covid-19 pandemic cast the world into a state of pandemonium. Health-seeking behavior was changed, adherence to treatments was compromised, health system priorities were literally transformed overnight, and the longevity and quality of life were compromised (1). The sudden need to effect social distancing to survive (2) instantly created a complex crisis; patients would die if they stayed at home and would likely die if they went out to seek care (3). All strata of life were adversely affected, as progress towards attaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was threatened (4). In order to overcome this crisis, there was a need to innovate to prevent the loss of the painstaking gains in reproductive health indicators that have been made over the years. The quagmire grew worse with the rise of multiple mutations of this diabolical virus, further enhancing the need for innovation to survive (5). This has led to the increased use of Telemedicine to maintain patient-provider contact while effecting social distancing. Physical contact is significantly limited in duration, and even then, only with appropriately applied personal protective equipment (6). During the 46th Annual Scientific Congress of the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynecological Society (KOGS), there are a total of 7 submissions made that directly involve research on Covid-19. Presently, the primary thrust of the submissions remains maternal-fetal medicine (30 ), a trend that has remained consistent % over the last few years. However, we have increased submissions relating to Information Technology in health, health policy, and implementation science (16 ) and a sustained increase in interest in gyneco % - logical oncology (15 ). This represents a response to % the clarion call to enhance innovative strategies that will help Kenya survive this pandemic, protect the gains we have made over the years, and further optimize our ability to work towards Kenya’s Vision 2030. An overall increase in the number of submissions is evident, alongside a tendency towards improved quality of the submissions. This reflects a growing interest in research and publication among the membership of KOGS, which shall be vital to facilitating influence on local and regional health policy in the present and the future. The editorial team, editorial board and, panel of reviewers will continue to provide adequate support to encourage our members to continue to publish and ensure production of continually improving high-quality publications. This reflects our standing commitment to the continued good standing of our society.
