By Lorraine Anyango

The long-awaited elevation of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) to a level six facility received a significant boost after Cabinet Secretary for Health, Nakhumicha S. Wafula, pledged to look into the matter.

Fast-Track Commitment:

This move holds particular importance, as JOOTRH is currently the only county-managed hospital at this level in the country, with the others being parastatals under the national government.

Easing the Burden:

Upgrading JOOTRH to a level six facility would alleviate the financial burden on the Kisumu County government. Currently, 70% of the hospital’s resources come from the county. Upgrading the facility would increase its access to national resources, enabling it to better serve the region.

Inspection and Collaboration:

Wafula, accompanied by members of the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Board (KMPDC), announced that an inspection of JOOTRH would be conducted “soonest possible” to expedite the process. This proactive approach follows calls from Hon. Dr. James Nyikal Wambura, Member of Parliament for Seme, and Kisumu County Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili, who highlighted the critical need for the facility to offer enhanced services to the region.

Tour and Dignitary Visit:

To gain first-hand experience of JOOTRH’s services, Wafula toured the facility alongside the Director-General for Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth, members of the National Assembly Health Committee and other parliamentarians, members of the Senate Health Committee, and Kisumu County dignitaries. The team was received by the CEO of JOOTRH and the hospital’s executive committee members.

Cancer Center Support:

Wafula further pledged Ksh 100 million to complete the ongoing construction of the hospital’s cancer center. Additionally, she promised to secure a partner to equip the facility upon completion. This initiative will benefit from the National Government’s cancer program, ultimately reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for cancer treatment.

Tour Highlights:

During the tour, the delegation visited various departments, including the pharmacy, laboratory, imaging department, and cancer and blood disorders center.