The treatment of cancer at Embu level five hospital kicked off yesterday following the arrival of two oncology Doctors from Kenyatta National Hospital.
The treatment started with 15 patients who were booked for the commencement of treatment which would be done every Tuesday by the visiting doctors.
While welcoming the two Oncology Doctors, Dr. Isaac Michemi and Dr. Primus Ochieng’, County Executive Member in charge of Health Dr. Joan Mwende said the county has hired the services of the doctors to work closely with Embu their counterparts.
“We shall no longer have referrals of cancer to Kenyatta National Hospital from Embu but rather, apart from receiving our cancer patients, we shall also be receiving referrals from neighbouring counties,” Dr. Mwende noted.
She also observed that they have instituted a tumour board to oversee all cases of cancer which comprises specialists from different areas including radiologists, haematologists, physicians, paediatrics, oncology nurses and pharmacists.
“The visiting oncologists will provide a road map while carrying out the operations. The facility will be offering chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgical treatments of cancer. We have everything in place and treatment starts today,” she said.
On his part, Dr. Primus Ochieng appreciated the Embu Oncology Centre, saying it is one of the biggest public cancer centres in the country.
“It is good move by the County for its people and neighbouring counties which will also lower travel expenses by cancer patients, being closer to them,” he noted.
He further said that with cooperation from the county, they would provide all necessary services to the cancer patients.
The Sh.70 million Oncology Centre with 240 bed-capacity wards was commissioned by Embu Governor Martin Wambora on Friday last week.
By Kimani Tirus
