Chuka Referral Hospital is set to become a level 5 facility, following President William Ruto's directive to the Ministry of Health.

The Ministry of Health has pledged to work with the County Government of Tharaka Nithi to support the Chuka County Referral Hospital to comply with Level 5 status.

Speaking on Monday as she toured the hospital to assess its state of readiness, Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr Nakhumicha Wafula said the facility has made great strides, but more work needs to be done.

The CS said the Ministry of Health will provide the necessary equipment, such as CT scan and HDU machines, to support the upgrade.

Dr Nakhumicha urged the county government to prioritise its health budget to ensure funds go towards the level 5 upgrade.

Meanwhile, the CS accompanied by Governor Njuki visited Marimanti Level 4 Hospital where they assessed the status of the facility and listened to issues from staff.

Dr Nakhumicha noted that her ministry will support the hospital with equipment such as CT scans to ensure improvement of services to the residents.

 Google telemedicine platform 

They also assessed the Google telemedicine platform being developed at the facility that will allow remote consultancy services from the best health professionals from across the country. 

Telemedicine will save patients time and resources associated with in-person consultations.

“Big shoutout to Google for their telemedicine platform in Tharaka Nithi County. It will provide easy access to quality health services and cut costs for patients, the CS health acknowledged.” Said the CS.

Governor Muthomi Njuki thanked the national government for their support and promised to work closely with them to achieve even more for the county's health facilities.