Vihiga: Vihiga County Referral Hospital Management has initiated a series of reforms aimed at enhancing service delivery, improving efficiency, and preparing the facility for an upgrade to a Level Five hospital. Chief Executive Officer Titus Mumia, in a discussion on Vihiga FM, detailed the hospital's progress and strategies to overcome challenges.

According to Kenya News Agency, Mumia expressed confidence that the hospital's elevation to a Level Five facility would soon be approved, which would enhance its capacity to provide specialized services and manage more regional referrals. He emphasized the importance of human resource management, adopting an open-door leadership approach to improve staff communication and collaboration.

Mumia stated that around 90 percent of the staff have embraced the new systems, although a small group remains resistant. Disciplinary actions, including contract terminations, have been taken against employees who repeatedly threatened industrial action over issues beyond the hospital's control.

Financial constraints have led the hospital to engage casual workers on three-month renewable contracts. To further improve efficiency, the hospital is considering outsourcing cleaning services to a private company, which Mumia believes will streamline operations and improve service quality.

Addressing drug availability, Mumia assured the public of adequate stocks of essential medicines, although challenges remain in the oncology department due to high drug costs. Efforts are underway to secure necessary medications for specialized treatment. Mumia urged patients to report any instances of being referred outside the hospital to purchase drugs, a practice that is not allowed.

The hospital has adopted a redistribution strategy for pharmaceutical supplies to minimize wastage and strictly adheres to the Public Health Act for disposing of expired medicines. Mumia dismissed allegations of fake diagnoses to exploit funds from the Social Health Authority, affirming the system's effectiveness.

In infrastructure development, the Hospital Plaza, set to launch in May, will significantly expand the hospital's capacity and service offerings, with an additional 200-bed capacity, modern medical equipment, a larger laboratory, and expanded theatre spaces.

Mumia highlighted the impact of reduced external funding on HIV programs, introducing an integrated service delivery model to ensure continuity of services. He envisions transforming the facility into a teaching and referral hospital within the next year and called on the County Assembly for adequate budgetary support.