Amukura: The residents of Amukura East ward can breathe a sigh of relief following the commissioning of a new Aturet dispensary, a health facility which will ensure over 6,000 residents have access to the primary health care services within their vicinity.
According to Kenya News Agency, the commissioning of the dispensary has been applauded by the residents, terming it a game changer in their thirst for better medical services in line with the government directive of accessible primary healthcare services to all.
Speaking during the official opening, Busia County Deputy Governor Mr. Arthur Odera emphasized the importance of strengthening the healthcare system at the grassroots level, adding that the launch of the facility marked a significant step in addressing the area's healthcare needs. Odera highlighted that dispensaries are crucial first points of contact for healthcare in rural areas, offering basic primary care and preventive services. He noted that the facility would provide essential services like immunization, family planning, and treatment of common ailments.
The Deputy Governor, who also serves as the County CECM in charge of the Health Department, stated that the county leadership remains steadfast in its efforts to expand health infrastructure and bring services closer to the people. He assured residents that more such facilities would be rolled out to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, especially in remote and underserved areas. Odera affirmed the commitment to ensuring the provision of quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare to all, emphasizing the dispensary's role in reaching communities with basic healthcare needs and serving as a referral point for more complex cases.
The newly opened dispensary is expected to ease pressure on neighboring health facilities and improve local community access to primary healthcare. Area MCA Leonard Emuret lauded the move, highlighting the struggles the residents of Amukura East ward faced in accessing health services. Emuret noted that for many years, residents had to endure significant challenges to access primary healthcare services, including paying for travel to distant hospitals for basic services, which often discouraged them from seeking necessary care.
Finally, the Busia health department has been actively working to improve residents' access to enhanced services over the past two weeks, reinforcing the county's commitment to healthcare development.