In a bid to reduce the high cost of specialized treatment in Western Kenya, The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) recently officially unveiled its highly anticipated Prime Care Center (PCC).

The facility is viewed as offering opportunity to the residents to access the high specialized treatment at affordable rate and instead of exorbitant charges by the private hospitals in the region.

Some of the services you to expect at JOOTRH Prime Care Center include :

• Expert Medical Professionals: The same highly trained doctors and nurses you know from JOOTRH will be providing care at the Prime Care Center.

• Advanced Technology: The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to ensure you receive the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

• Affordable Rates: You’ll receive the same high-quality care you’d expect from a private hospital, but at a price that won’t break the bank.

Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang Nyongo presided over the ceremony presided where he commended the management for  recent improvements made at JOOTRH and pledged his government’s commitment to elevate the hospital’s status to a parastatal. 

“This is your hospital you should make use of it. “Whether you are a civil servant, a business owner, or simply seeking specialized care, the PCC is designed to meet your needs.” he said.

The Governor acknowledged the historical challenges faced by Kisumu residents, particularly civil servants, in accessing specialized healthcare within their insurance limits. 

“Private hospitals often quickly exhaust these limits, leaving patients with difficult choices. Our Prime Care Center will directly address this issue by providing the same high-quality, specialized services at a more affordable rate,” he said

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Previously, JOOTRH, the only level-five hospital in the region, lacked a dedicated amenity wing. The Prime Care Center fills this critical gap.

“JOOTRH must play in its league, alongside KUTTRH and MTRH, because of the specialized services it offers,” said Dr. Mathew Owili, the Deputy Governor.

 Dr. Owili said JOOTRH’s qualified to be  parastatal status, citing its quality, affordability, and role as a teaching and referral hospital.

Dr. Greggory Ganda, the County Executive Committee Member for Medical Services, Public Health, and Sanitation, announced plans to establish a primary care facility in Kondele, allowing JOOTRH to focus on specialized services.

Governor Nyong’o expressed his appreciation for the 40-bed capacity, calling it “a great start.” He encouraged potential investors to partner with JOOTRH to expand the facility’s reach, emphasizing the greater impact on the community with more beds available.

The County Government of Kisumu has partnered with various organizations to address emerging challenges of infectious diseases and inadequate breastfeeding which has remained significant threats to infant health in the Nyanza region.

During the recent World Breast Feeding Day, the government through the Department of Medical Services Public Health and Sanitation underscored the importance of breastfeeding infants and the prevention of infectious diseases among them.

The partners included Kisumu Medical and Education Trust (KMET), Mama Toto, Make Me Smile (USAID 4 CHILD), and Kisumu Urban Apostolate Programs (KUAP) together focused on this year’s theme, “Closing the gap, breastfeeding support for all.”

KMET, led by Project Coordinator Oscar Okoth, offered free health services including cancer screening, family planning, immunization, nutrition assessment, and antenatal care. KUAP provided essential nutrition guidance for breastfeeding mothers, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet comprising the ten food groups.
Rosemary Shikari of Mama Toto highlighted the challenges hindering breastfeeding success. She emphasized the critical role of maternal mental health, urging spouses to provide emotional support.

Shikari also debunked common misconceptions about breastfeeding, such as the use of pacifiers, bottles, and formula milk.

She demonstrated correct breastfeeding positions and techniques, stressing the importance of on-demand feeding and frequent latching.

Signs of inadequate breastfeeding, including changes in stool color, colic, and excessive sleep, were discussed.
The event concluded with food donations to mothers and children.
The initiative was graced by Department of Health representative Juma George, Sub County Focal Person Zadock Tako, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital JOOTRH Staff, and other county health officials.

By raising awareness and providing practical support, the event aimed to promote exclusive breastfeeding and improve infant health outcomes in the region.