Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) located in Kisumu County along the Kisumu-Kakamega Road, has been elevated to a Level 6A, category C5 parastatal, a move that now opens doors for academic partnerships and enhances its role in clinical research and training programmes across the region.
The new status, previously reserved for public institutions, will see the hospital collaborate with top learning institutions, particularly Maseno University.
The classification places JOOTRH on par with top-tier institutions such as the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Kenya Power, and universities like the University of Nairobi, granting it greater financial and operational autonomy. However, the status comes with both significant privileges and immense responsibilities.
Speaking during a visit to the facility, Dr. Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary (PS) for Medical Services, described JOOTRH’s journey to national status as unique, noting it is the only facility transferred from county control, whereas others were built and operated from the outset by the national government.
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He praised the Kisumu County government for its cooperation and the local community for supporting the transition.
“Within three months, all staff and payment systems will be completed under the national framework. Through the leadership of His Excellency the President, we’ve ensured full visibility and accountability for staff payments, and a clear path for future development,” said the PS.
Dr. Oluga held consultative meetings with the hospital’s clinical excellence team, led by acting CEO Joshua Okise, including doctors, nurses, lab technicians, and other healthcare professionals. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving patient outcomes, clinical effectiveness, and customer experience.
“We are focused on patient safety, compassionate care, and outcomes that allow our people to return to economic productivity,” he added.
By Fredrick Odiero
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