Embu: The Embu County Government has waived hospital bills amounting to Sh2.6 million for 16 patients admitted at Embu Level Five Hospital in celebrations to mark 100 years since the facility was established. The beneficiaries, who are needy patients, have been treated but lacked the funds to clear their hospital bills. Now, they will be discharged on Monday following the waiver.
According to Kenya News Agency, during the centenary anniversary celebration on Saturday, Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire pledged to transform the hospital into a world-class referral facility. She described the hospital's past struggles, highlighting issues such as demoralized staff, lack of medicines, broken laboratories, and insufficient food and supplies for patients.
Governor Mbarire recounted the challenges faced by the hospital when she took office, emphasizing that staff morale and patient care were among her administration's priorities. She noted that her government has made significant strides in reviving the hospital, including clearing substantial debts to medical suppliers like KEMSA and MEDS, which had previously crippled operations.
In addressing staff welfare, the Governor revealed that her administration has cleared Sh588 million in salary statutory deductions and is committed to promoting staff within the current financial year. These measures aim to improve staff morale and service delivery.
The hospital's surgical capabilities have also been enhanced, with the addition of two maternity theatres and an increase in the number of main theatres. Furthermore, the procurement of Sh18 million laparoscopic machines and the strengthening of diagnostic services with new X-ray and ultrasound equipment, alongside modern dental chairs, are underway.
Governor Mbarire announced the imminent installation of a CT scan and an MRI machine to broaden the hospital's diagnostic capacity. Additionally, oncology and renal care services have been expanded, with the renal unit now fully equipped and supported by the Social Health Authority.
The Governor also highlighted the hospital's improved revenue collection, reporting Sh478 million in revenue for the 2024/25 financial year. Over Sh300 million of this was generated from Social Health Authority claims, significantly enhancing the hospital's financial standing.