Vihiga Teaching and Referral Hospital has been upgraded to a Level 5 facility, a move expected to boost healthcare service delivery in the county and beyond.
Speaking to Kenya News Agency, the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Titus Mumia, said the upgrade followed a comprehensive assessment by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC).
Mumia said the assessment focused on key areas including availability of qualified medical staff, infrastructure, waste management and service delivery.
“The evaluators assessed whether the hospital has adequate specialists, functional laboratories, radiology services, and sufficient space for patient admissions and short stays,” he said.
He noted that the hospital scored 88 percent during the evaluation, indicating good performance, but will be subjected to a review after one year to ensure compliance with Level 5 standards and whether it will have addressed existing gaps.
Mumia said the upgrade positions the hospital to attract more specialists a move that will in turn enhance service delivery.
He added that theatre services will be enhanced, diagnostic services expanded, and more healthcare personnel engaged to meet the growing demand.
The CEO further noted that the hospital will now handle referrals from Level 4 facilities and other complex cases that previously required patients to seek services outside the county.
Mumia said the hospital has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with various learning institutions to enhance training, increase internship opportunities, and boost workforce capacity.
Residents are expected to benefit from reduced costs of seeking specialized treatment, as services will now be available within the county.
On diagnostic services, Mumia confirmed that the CT scan machine, which had previously stalled, is now operational.
He added that the county government is working on acquiring an MRI machine through international partnerships.
However, he cited negative attitudes and interference from cartels as some of the challenges experienced during the transition.
He called for support from stakeholders, including elected leaders and the Board of Management, to ensure the hospital achieves its long-term goals of quality service delivery.
By Yvonne Misango
