By M, KNA
Members of the Kirinyaga County Assembly’s Public Health and Sanitation Committee conducted an impromptu fact-finding visit to the Renal Unit at Kerugoya County Referral Hospital, expressing satisfaction with the progress made in improving renal services.
The visit, led by Committee Chairperson Bernard Gichangi, was part of the Committee’s oversight mandate to assess public health facilities across the county. Its unexpected nature allowed members to independently evaluate service delivery, infrastructure, staffing, and patient care at the renal unit.
During the inspection, members observed that the renal unit operates five functional dialysis machines serving an average of 12 patients per day. The Committee noted that the machines were in good working condition and that services were orderly and professional.
The officer in charge of the unit reported that the current staff establishment stands at six personnel, insufficient for round-the-clock operations. She highlighted the urgent need for an additional 16 trained staff members and more dialysis machines to meet the growing demand from patients across the county.
The Committee commended the management of patient records, noting that records are well maintained, properly filed, and regularly updated. Accurate record-keeping has improved medical personnel’s ability to monitor patient progress, schedule treatments, and make informed clinical decisions.
On pharmaceutical management, the Committee observed that the renal unit uses an automated inventory system providing real-time updates on medicine stock levels. This has enhanced accountability, minimized shortages, and promoted efficient utilization of medical supplies.
Beyond the renal unit, the Committee inspected other critical support departments, including the kitchen and laundry, and commended the hygiene and organizational standards. However, members cautioned hospital management to ensure clear and consistent documentation when moving supplies, especially medicines, within and outside the facility.
The Committee also reflected on concerns raised last year about poor service delivery and inadequate facilities at the renal unit. They noted significant improvement, attributing progress to better management, increased oversight, and targeted investments in the health sector.
The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to continue monitoring the facility to ensure sustained improvement, emphasizing that strengthening renal services at Kerugoya County Referral Hospital remains a key priority, given its critical role in serving patients countywide.
