Nakuru: The Nakuru County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health, Roselyn Mungai, today concluded a crucial monitoring visit to Lengenet and Kandutura Dispensaries, in Rongai focusing on enhancing service delivery and addressing community concerns. The visit highlighted the Nakuru County Government's commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and quality across the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, at Kandutura Dispensary, CECM Mungai engaged in a productive dialogue with the facility in-charge and local residents, focusing on the urgent need for dispensary renovations. Community members voiced their aspirations for an upgraded facility to better serve their healthcare needs. In response, Ms. Mungai pledged the county's commitment to working towards these improvements.
A key focus of the discussions was the clarification of healthcare service levels and the corresponding medication categories assigned to each facility. 'We recognize the importance of managing expectations and improving understanding among our residents,' stated Ms. Mungai. 'To achieve this, we will intensify public awareness campaigns detailing the specific services and medications available at each level of care.' This initiative aims to address concerns raised by residents regarding the occasional unavailability of certain medications at lower-level dispensaries.
Moving to Lengenet Dispensary, the focus shifted to bolstering maternity services. Ms. Mungai observed the existing maternity unit and committed to its full operationalization. 'The facility already possesses the necessary infrastructure,' she noted. 'With minor adjustments, we can significantly enhance maternity services beyond emergency care, providing comprehensive support to expectant mothers in the region.' These adjustments are slated for immediate prioritization.
The CECM commended the dedication and resilience of frontline health workers at both dispensaries. 'Their commitment to serving the community is truly commendable,' she emphasized. 'The county government will continue to provide unwavering support to ensure that every resident of Visoi Ward has access to quality and reliable healthcare.'
This visit comes amidst significant strides in Nakuru's health sector. Over the past few years, the county has witnessed notable improvements, including increased infrastructure investment and enhanced drug supply chain systems.
Ms. Mungai noted that efforts have been made to streamline the drug supply chain, ensuring consistent availability of essential medications across all healthcare facilities. The county has implemented a robust system to track and manage drug inventory, minimizing stockouts.
She emphasized that the county has prioritized maternal and child health, leading to a reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates. Investments in maternity units and skilled birth attendants have contributed to safer deliveries.
Additionally, she said the county has actively recruited and trained healthcare professionals, addressing the shortage of skilled personnel in various facilities. This has improved the quality of care and reduced patient wait times. Apart from that, she stated that the county has empowered community health volunteers to reach the grassroots level, providing health education and basic health services to the communities.
Finally, she said there has been an increase in the number of residents registering with the Taifa insurance fund, allowing more residents access to healthcare. However, she didn't provide a figure.
These improvements reflect the Nakuru County Government's ongoing commitment to strengthening its health sector and ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare for all its residents. The recent monitoring visit to Visoi Ward underscores this commitment, with a focus on addressing specific community needs and enhancing service delivery at the grassroots level.