By Lorraine Anyango.

Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) has officially transitioned from a government department to Semi-Autonomous Government Agency (SAGA).This significant milestone comes at a pivotal time as JOOTRH is implementing a comprehensive strategic plan and transformative management agenda to enhance its administrative and clinical services. JOOTRH now joins the likes of KIWASSCO and Kisumu County Public Service Board among orthers.  

JOOTRH CEO Dr. Richard Lesiyampe announced the SAGA status and called on the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to increase the daily bed reimbursement from Ksh 3,500 to Ksh 4,500 per day. He noted that JOOTRH is now operating as a Level 6A facility, providing specialized care and services.

To further solidify its position as a leading healthcare provider, JOOTRH has recently renewed its license from the Kenya Medical and Practitioners and Dentist Board (KMPDB) to operate as a National Teaching and Referral facility. This designation aligns with its Level 6A status and underscores its commitment to providing high-quality care and training medical professionals.

Dr. Lesiyampe also outlined the hospital’s plans to expand its bed capacity to at least 760 beds, ensuring that it can meet the growing healthcare needs of the region.

The elevation of JOOTRH to a SAGA was a fulfillment of a promise made by Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Ayang’ Nyong’o during the opening of the hospital’s Prime Care amenity wing. This new status grants the JOOTRH board, led by Ms. Doris Ombara, greater operational autonomy in managing the hospital’s affairs, including determining its organizational structure, rewards, and sanctions.

The gazette notice announcing the SAGA  status highlighted JOOTRH’s significance as the oldest and most developed medical facility in the region, serving a catchment population of over 10 million people. It also approved the hospital to provide Level 6A hospital services, pending necessary statutory confirmations.

As a parastatal, JOOTRH will now operate as a government entity handling referrals from within and outside Kisumu County. It will also continue to play a vital role in training doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in collaboration with institutions of higher learning.

In addition to its core services, JOOTRH plans to expand its healthcare establishment by establishing specialized centers for oncology, neonatal pediatrics, surgery, and radiology.

The gazette notice dated August 30, 2024, also stated that the recurrent board and hospital management team will transition into a Semi-Autonomous Government Agency (SAGA). This move is expected to further enhance the hospital’s efficiency and effectiveness.