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Referral Hospitals to Receive Crucial Donation for Premature Babies

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Major Referral hospitals in Western Kenya are set to benefit from a donation by an International Health Organization.

The referral hospitals in Kisumu, Homabay, Kisii, and Kakamega counties will receive a critical boost in their neonatal care capacity.

The generous donation from the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), consists of approximately 30,000 dosages of caffeine citrate, a medication essential for managing Apnea of Prematurity (AOP) in premature infants.

The donation comes hot in the heels after a five-day Comprehensive Newborn Care Training program attended by healthcare workers from the beneficiary hospitals.

 AOP is a condition where premature babies experience brief pauses in breathing. Caffeine citrate has emerged as a safe and effective treatment, improving breathing in these fragile infants and reducing their risk of developing chronic lung diseases.

Making Essential Treatment Affordable

The Kisumu County Medical Services, Public Health and Sanitation Chief Officer Dr.Ojwang  Lusi said there was a critical need by the facilities to have an  affordable access to caffeine citrate. 

Previously, a single dose cost approximately Ksh 2,000, placing a significant financial burden on county governments and limiting its use. 

“The opportunity to provide this vital medication will significantly enhance our ability to care for premature babies,” said Mr. Nicholas Pule, Kisumu County’s Child Health Coordinator, 

He said the cost of caffeine has been reduced by 70%, and this will go a long way in enhancing health care in the region.

 Ms. Betty Wariari, Associate Director at CHAI said the support will now translate to a cost of Sh 300 per a dose thus making it a much more accessible treatment option.

The “high cost of caffeine often meant limited availability, especially for babies born very early. This intervention by CHAI, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Kenya Medical Supplies Agency, (KEMPSA) is a crucial step towards ensuring a consistent supply and improved survival rates for neonates,” she said.

She said globally, poor quality of care was responsible for 61% of newborn deaths.

“A steady supply of essential medications like caffeine is vital for strengthening our healthcare system and giving these vulnerable babies a fighting chance “she said

Story by Correspondent

Photos Courtesy Governor Press Kisumu

Residents of Western Kenya to benefit from specialized care at affordable rate at JOOTRH

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Residents of Western Kenya to benefit from specialized care at affordable rate at JOOTRH

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.

Story by Correspondent

Photos Courtesy Governor Press Kisumu

Kisumu County government partners withHealth Organizations to boost breast feeding inNyanza

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