BY LORRAINE ANYANGO .

The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) witnessed a smooth leadership transition with the  outgoing CEO, Dr. George Rae, officially handing over the reins to his successor, Prof. Richard Lesiyampe. Both esteemed professionals share a history of collaboration, dating back to Dr. Rae’s pivotal role in crafting the reform plan for Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), later implemented by Prof. Lesiyampe during his consultancy period.

As Dr. Rae transitions to lead partnerships and resource mobilization within the county’s Department of Medical Services, he urged Prof. Lesiyampe to prioritize unfinished projects initiated under his leadership.

Key among these is the swift elevation of JOOTRH to parastatal status, which would enhance administrative autonomy and resource allocation. Dr. Rae further emphasized the need for increased funding for essential commodities in critical departments like pharmacy, non-pharmaceuticals, lab materials, and radiology consumables.

Specific project recommendations included:

• Completion and equipment acquisition for the Cardio-thoracic unit and Neurosurgical ward.

• Finalization and furnishing of the Burns unit.

• Establishment of a Pediatric dialysis unit and Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), with ongoing negotiations with Fresenius (South Africa) for 20 renal machines.

• Expansion of oxygen piping to all beds for improved patient care.

• Creation of a JOOTRH resource center for learning institutions and tele-medicine exchange.

• Completion and equipment procurement for the radiotherapy and blood disorder center.

• Prioritization of JOOTRH mobilization, partnerships, and collaboration initiatives.

Dr. Rae acknowledged the facility’s current challenges, including a critical shortage of medical officers and nurses, limited commodity security, and inadequate cash flow. However, Prof. Lesiyampe expressed his gratitude for the highlighted priorities and assured everyone of his commitment to work hand-in-hand with Dr. Rae and all stakeholders to transform JOOTRH into a leading healthcare provider.

The official handover concluded with Dr. Rae presenting a comprehensive report on the facility’s current status, followed by both parties signing the documentation, marking the commencement of a new chapter for JOOTRH.