BY IVENE MERCY
Residents of Migori County are witnessing significant improvements in healthcare services following a series of reforms and investments spearheaded by their governor Ochilo Ayacko through the department of Health Services.
Since assuming office, Governor Ayacko has prioritized the strengthening of healthcare infrastructure, expansion of medical services, and improvement of access to quality healthcare across the county.
The reforms are aimed at building a stronger, more accessible, and people-centred healthcare system capable of meeting the needs of all residents.
A major milestone has been the transformation of Migori County Referral Hospital towards attaining Level 5 referral status.
The hospital has expanded its specialized medical services through the establishment of a Cancer Care Centre, Cardiac Unit, Gastroenterology Unit, and a County Molecular Laboratory. The county has also enhanced diagnostic capabilities through the installation of a modern 64-slice CT Scan and other advanced medical equipment, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment outside Migori.
To strengthen healthcare delivery, the county government recruited 153 healthcare workers and promoted 1,004 staff members. The number of specialist doctors has increased from seven to eighteen, while 49 healthcare professionals have received support for specialized training, boosting the county’s capacity to provide advanced medical care.
In efforts to improve the availability of medicines and medical supplies, the county constructed a central drugs warehouse, automated supply chain management systems, and acquired dedicated distribution vehicles. These interventions have enhanced the distribution of essential medicines to health facilities across the county.
The county has also expanded healthcare access through the operationalization of 20 new dispensaries and the completion of 14 additional dispensaries. Six laboratories have been refurbished and modernized to improve diagnostic services at the grassroots level.
Maternal and child healthcare has received significant attention, with the operationalization of maternity facilities in Muhuru, Macalder, and several other health centres. The establishment of the Awendo Mother and Child Hospital has further strengthened maternal and newborn healthcare services, ensuring that expectant mothers and children receive quality care closer to home.
At the community level, healthcare services have been enhanced through the distribution of 3,200 Community Health Promoter kits and smartphones to 3,441 Community Health Promoters. The initiative has improved household healthcare services, disease surveillance, and digital reporting across the county.
Additionally, the county government has invested in the construction of maternity units, staff housing, sanitation facilities, and the renovation of critical departments at Migori County Referral Hospital and sub-county hospitals in Awendo, Rongo, Nyamaraga, Kehancha, Kegonga, and Isebania.
The health sector investments reflect Governor Ayacko’s commitment to strengthening healthcare systems, reducing referral cases, improving access to specialized treatment, and ensuring that quality healthcare services are available to all residents of Migori County. Through these interventions, the county continues to make significant strides toward achieving universal healthcare coverage and improving health outcomes for its population.
