The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) has been upgraded to a Level C5 parastatal, a classification previously reserved for public universities.
Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, who announced the elevation during a visit to the Kisumu-based facility on Monday, said the transition from county to national status must deliver immediate impact.
He noted that the change is designed to attract and retain top health professionals while steering the hospital toward financial sustainability.
The PS added that national referral hospitals will no longer receive tax-based funding within five years emphasising that facilities like JOOTRH must diversify their income through clinical research, grant writing, and training innovations.
Among the proposals is the establishment of a modern simulation centre to improve medical training while generating revenue.
Dr. Oluga also stressed a people-first approach, with a focus on staff welfare, patient safety, and community health.
He urged the hospital to expand follow-up care and develop strategies targeting preventable diseases that weigh heavily on the region.
The PS further challenged specialists to mentor junior staff and disclosed that a new hospital board will be appointed before the end of the month.
“This facility is expected to change the story of health in this region,” he said.
