Elgeyo marakwet: Senator William Kisang and County Assembly Health Services Committee Chairperson Justine Mutwol visited Iten County Referral Hospital to assess concerns raised by the Auditor General, as well as the ongoing doctors' strike affecting service delivery.

According to Kenya News Agency, Senator Kisang stated that the visit was prompted by audit queries submitted to the Senate. He emphasized the need to evaluate the issues flagged in the audit report and the progress made in addressing them.

Among the critical issues was the stalled amenity ward, highlighted in the audit report. Kisang assured residents that construction was ongoing, with plans to complete the roofing by the end of the financial year, and more resources would be allocated to ensure its completion.

Additionally, Kisang addressed the absence of an accounting system at the hospital, stating that a supplier was working on implementing the system. He assured that the accounting module would be operational by the end of the financial year.

Kisang also discussed asset management, revealing that valuation had not been conducted but was underway, with the national government beginning to hand over assets to the county. Medical equipment valuation would be based on acquisition costs.

The senator expressed concern over the shortage of medical personnel, exacerbated by the ongoing doctors' strike. He mentioned that the matter was in court, with an order directing doctors to return to work and engage in dialogue.

Kisang highlighted the impact of the strike on healthcare services, noting a significant drop in bed occupancy. He urged doctors to resume duty for the benefit of the patients and called on the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to review doctors' promotion demands.

Mutwol, on his part, affirmed the visit as part of the County Assembly's oversight to address hospital challenges, including the strike and operational gaps. He acknowledged financial and structural constraints but emphasized the need for dialogue.

Mutwol urged healthcare workers to comply with the court directive and return to work, while also criticizing the medics for not engaging with the County Assembly before initiating the strike.