Machakos County Government has distributed medical supplies worth Sh50 million from Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA).
Speaking at Machakos Level 5 hospital, Machakos County Governor Wavinya Ndeti said they have dispersed medicinal drugs and non-pharmaceutical items which would be distributed in all hospitals in the county from the level 5 facility to dispensaries.
“Today we are distributing medical drugs and non-pharmaceutical items which will be done in two phases, those from KEMSA and those from other suppliers, this is part of the 100-day rapid result initiative (RRI),” said Ndeti.
“The supplies being dispatched today are worth Sh50 million, which include pharmaceuticals and non-pharmaceuticals and are expected to last for two months. These are around six lorries of drugs. There are other three on the way, which will be distributed to level 4, 3 and dispensaries to reach people upcountry,” she added.
Ndeti promised that her government would ensure that all hospitals are fully supplied with essential drugs, on quarterly basis and urged those in charge of the medical supplies to be accountable for receiving, use and security of the materials.
Ndeti further added that the drugs would minimize the patients’ cost on treatment since they would not have to buy the drugs from chemists like it has been for the past several years.
The governor also issued a stern warning to anyone found selling hospital medicines to private chemists and requested for cooperation among hospital heads and chemists to ensure that medicines are given to patients only.
She also asked the health personnel to work diligently to give quality service to the patients and pledged to work hand in hand with them to enhance the health sector, assuring them that her door was open in case they needed any assistance.
To reduce congestion in Machakos level 5 referral hospital, the governor noted that the county government has installed liquid oxygen tank at Kangundo level 4 hospital.
The governor also advised the residents to register with National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) and ensure it’s up to date in order to enjoy its benefits which reduced medical treatment and services’ cost.
“I request those who have not registered with NHIF to do so. We have plans to help the elderly above 65 years and those with disabilities,” said Ndeti.
By Caroline Mutheu and Tabitha Mbithi
