West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo has warned politicians and locals leaders against politicizing the health sector in the County.
The County boss asked local leaders to keep politics away from Kapenguria County Referral Hospital matters in order to improve health services.
This comes after a leaders and residents in the County raised concerns over the deteriorating health services and increased deaths at the main referral hospital in the County.
Lonyangapuo said they have put in place strategies to improve health care in the hospital saying local leaders should sit down with the health committee to address the challenges in the hospital. “Is is laughable for a leader to question why one person has died,” said Lonyangapuo.
The Governor was speaking during the commissioning of a newborn unit and upgraded maternity wing at Kapenguria County Referral and new equipment courtesy of the government of Austria, and West Pokot County government in partnership with the national government. He called on residents to seek services in the hospital and not to worry about the health situation saying that saying services will be improved.
“We shall fix the problems because we have enough drugs and we shall ensure we minimize the challenges,” he said, “We want patients, especially expectant mothers, to come to hospital on time to avert deaths.”
Lonyangapuo said the facilities are aimed at promoting improved maternal and neo-natal health services in the region. “20 healthcare workers received specialized training on the use of the equipment. Furthermore, a doctor and a nurse were also trained in Austria,” said Lonyangapuo.
The County boss disclosed that they will also establish newborn units and upgrade maternity wings in Chepareria and Kabichbich health facilities.
The County Director of Health Dr. Norbert Abuya said health services have improved in the County.
Kapenguria County hospital board chairman Dr. Phillip Parklea said there is a challenge of water and under staffing in the hospital, but dispelled the notion of a health crisis in the County.
