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The government has underscored the urgent need to fast-track the completion of the Cancer Centre at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) to reduce the burden of patient referrals for radiotherapy services to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH).
The Principal Secretary for the State Department for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga assured the leadership of JOOTRH that government will prioritize introducing radiotherapy and cardiology services, the two critical specialities currently missing at the facility.
The PS was speaking during a visit to JOOTRH following earlier assessments by the Kenya Medical Practitioners Council (KMPC) and the Kenya Health Professionals Oversight Authority (KHPOA), which classified JOOTRH as a Level 6A facility.
Dr. Oluga’s visit focused on evaluating service delivery, staffing, infrastructure, equipment, and financial obligations to ensure a smooth transition.
Similarly, the PS announced plans to expand maternal and child health services, bolster neonatal care, and enhance the hospital’s capacity for training and research.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by the regional disease burden and the withdrawal of USAID funding, he pledging that the government would bridge any emerging funding gaps.
Further he noted that JOOTRH will benefit from the Social Health Authority (SHA) structured financing model, which is projected to support up to 90% of the hospital’s revenue.
The transition process is grounded in Article 187 of the Kenyan Constitution (2010) and is expected to be fully implemented by 30th June 2025.
Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, JOOTRH’s Chief Executive Officer, expressed the hospital’s readiness for the shift, highlighting the urgent need for additional nursing staff and the establishment of new specialized services.
Kisumu County’s CECM for Health and Sanitation, Dr. Gregory Ganda, welcomed the move, terming it the realization of a long-term vision for healthcare transformation in the region.
The Principal Secretary was received by Dr. Ganda, Acting Board Chair Festus Achilla, and members of the hospital’s executive committee.
JOOTRH will now embark on a 14-day public participation process ahead of the issuance of the legal notice that will formalize this historic milestone.
