The Ministry of Health and the county government of Trans Nzoia have joined forces to improve the standards at Matunda sub-county hospital.
Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha expressed regret that the hospital, which is classified as a Level 4 facility, is not providing adequate services.
Speaking to the press during a visit to the hospital on Sunday, Nakhumicha criticised the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency for failing to deliver sufficient supplies.
Out of what the hospital had ordered, only 30% was delivered, which the Health CS said was unacceptable.
Nakhumicha stated that in conjunction with the county government, she would direct the CEO of the KMPDC to conduct a needs assessment at the hospital.
Following this analysis, the KMPDC council would provide recommendations for everything necessary to make the hospital fully operational and effective.
The Health CS observed that locals seldom visit the hospital because they have lost confidence in it as it lacks the necessary facilities.
She added that the hospital would be furnished with the necessary equipment to better serve the locals following next week’s needs analysis.
In less than a month, Nakhumicha pledged that her ministry would provide an ambulance to the hospital to aid in service delivery, especially for referral cases.
She urged the area MCAs to increase funding to the health department to improve standards at health facilities.
During her visit, the Health CS observed that only one patient was being tested in the hospital’s laboratory.
However, she praised the hospital management and the county government for creating the proper structures at the facility.
Governor George Natembeya had previously expressed concern over KEMSA’s drug supplies, but he reassured residents that a full supply of drugs had been ordered and would be delivered the following week.
The County government has taken measures to ensure that all health facilities have enough drugs to avoid residents having to purchase medication out of their own pocket.
Health workers present at the event welcomed the initiative, saying it would improve service delivery at the hospital.
The Health CS also vowed to work with Governor Natembeya to improve the health department and enhance service delivery.
