Embu: The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) has urgently called for the closure of Ishiara Level 4 Hospital in Embu County, citing its poor condition and failure to provide necessary healthcare services. KUCO Secretary General, George Gibore, made this statement during a visit to the facility, where he was joined by other union officials to evaluate its operational status.

According to Kenya News Agency, Gibore and his team visited the hospital to express solidarity with healthcare workers and residents who are adversely affected by the substandard services. Gibore emphasized the union's concern over the hospital's deteriorating state, despite government funding aimed at improving healthcare facilities.

Gibore pointed out a significant shortage of staff, with only one clinical officer available for patients, compared to the expected minimum of four to eight clinicians for a facility of this level. He criticized the lack of essential medical supplies and services, which forces patients to purchase basic items externally. Key departments such as radiology are non-functional, lacking necessary equipment like ultrasound machines.

The union's stance is that Ishiara Level 4 Hospital should be downgraded to a Level 2 facility due to its current inadequacies. Gibore also condemned the poor sanitation conditions, citing the use of contaminated water that risks the health of both patients and healthcare workers.

Echoing these concerns, Jacinta Rwamba, Embu County KUCO Secretary, accused County officials of intimidating healthcare management and diverting funds meant for health projects without accountability. She called for increased transparency and accountability to address the mismanagement of resources.