The transformation of Meteitei Sub County Hospital in Songhor-Soba Ward is steadily changing the face of public healthcare in Tinderet Sub County, with residents now enjoying access to modern medical services that were once only available in major referral hospitals.
The health facility has evolved into one of the fastest-growing public hospitals in the area, thanks to sustained investment in medical infrastructure, modern diagnostic equipment and specialized healthcare services.
Today, the hospital boasts a fully equipped surgical theatre, expanded laboratory services, a digital Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered tuberculosis (TB) screening machine, a dedicated eye clinic and a Prime Care Clinic serving teachers, civil servants and other insured patients.
The improvements have not only enhanced the quality of healthcare but have also eased the financial burden on patients who previously travelled long distances to seek specialized treatment in Eldoret, Kapsabet and other towns.
Medical Superintendent Dr. Sammy Sirma said the hospital’s expansion is part of an ongoing effort to bring quality healthcare closer to the people while improving efficiency in service delivery.
“Meteitei Sub County Hospital has experienced remarkable growth over the last few years. We have invested in modern equipment and expanded our services to ensure residents receive comprehensive healthcare without unnecessary referrals. Our goal is to provide timely, affordable and quality medical services to every patient who walks through our doors,” said Dr. Sirma.
He noted that one of the hospital’s biggest milestones has been the establishment of a fully equipped surgical theatre that now handles a wide range of operations.
“Previously, many patients requiring surgery had to be referred to higher-level hospitals, causing delays and additional expenses. Today, our theatre is fully functional and equipped with modern equipment, enabling our medical teams to perform various surgical procedures safely and efficiently,” he said.
The expanded laboratory has equally transformed patient care by offering a wider range of diagnostic tests. Doctors can now make faster and more accurate diagnoses, allowing treatment to begin without unnecessary delays.
Dr. Sirma explained that accurate diagnosis remains the foundation of effective healthcare.
“Our laboratory has significantly improved our diagnostic capacity. Patients receive results much faster than before, enabling clinicians to make informed decisions and improve treatment outcomes,” he said.
Among the hospital’s most notable technological advancements is the installation of a digital AI-powered TB screening machine. The equipment analyses digital chest X-rays and assists clinicians in detecting signs associated with tuberculosis within a short time, improving early diagnosis and treatment.
“Early detection is one of the most effective ways of controlling tuberculosis. The AI-powered screening system enables healthcare workers to identify suspected TB cases quickly and initiate further investigations or treatment without delay. This technology has strengthened our fight against infectious diseases,” said Dr. Sirma.
He added that the hospital continues to work closely with national health programmes to ensure TB patients receive proper follow-up and medication.
The establishment of a specialized eye clinic has also brought relief to residents suffering from vision-related conditions. Patients who previously travelled for eye examinations, diagnosis and treatment can now access these services within the sub-county.
“The eye clinic has greatly improved access to specialized care. Early diagnosis of eye diseases is essential in preventing avoidable blindness, and our patients now receive quality services closer to home,” Dr. Sirma said.
Another major addition is the Prime Care Clinic, which serves teachers, civil servants and other beneficiaries covered under various medical insurance schemes.
According to Dr. Sirma, the clinic has enhanced convenience for insured clients while easing congestion in the general outpatient department.
“The Prime Care Clinic allows us to provide dedicated services to insured patients while maintaining efficiency across the hospital. Waiting times have reduced and patient satisfaction has improved considerably,” he said.
Residents say the hospital’s transformation has renewed confidence in public healthcare.
Peter Kiprono, a resident of Songhor-Soba Ward, recalled how patients once travelled for hours in search of specialized treatment.
“Things have changed completely. I recently underwent a surgical procedure here and received excellent care. The doctors were professional and the equipment was impressive. We no longer have to travel long distances for every medical service,” he said.
Rose Chepkemoi said the eye clinic had made healthcare more accessible for elderly patients.
“My mother had been struggling with poor eyesight for several months. We received treatment here without travelling to a referral hospital. The services were efficient and the medical staff treated us with great compassion,” she said.
Teacher Joseph Kimutai welcomed the introduction of the Prime care Clinic, saying it had improved healthcare access for public servants.
“As teachers, we appreciate having a dedicated clinic where we receive prompt medical attention. The waiting time has reduced significantly and the services are of high quality,” he said.
Businesswoman Janet Jelagat said the expanded laboratory had reduced uncertainty among patients seeking diagnosis.
“Many people used to move from one hospital to another because certain laboratory tests were unavailable. Today, most services are offered here, making treatment much faster and more convenient,” she said.
Another resident, Miriam Tuwei, observed that the hospital’s continued growth was improving the well-being of families across the area.
“We are proud of what this hospital has become. It gives residents confidence that quality healthcare is available within our community. Mothers, children, the elderly and people living with chronic illnesses all benefit from these improved services,” she said.
Healthcare experts observe that strengthening sub-county hospitals is essential to achieving universal health coverage by reducing congestion in referral hospitals and ensuring quality services are available closer to communities.
For the people of Songhor-Soba Ward and neighbouring areas, Meteitei Sub County Hospital has become more than just a health facility.
It stands as a symbol of progress, innovation and hope, where modern technology, skilled healthcare workers and expanded medical services are improving lives every day.
By Sammy Mwibanda
