Kisumu’s Jaramogi Oginga Odinga hospital elevated to parastatal status

By Peter Ochieng

The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) has officially transitioned from a government entity to a parastatal under the County Government of Kisumu.

The significant milestone, governor Anyang Nyong’os administration says, is pivotal as JOOTRH is implementing a comprehensive strategic plan and transformative management agenda, to enhance its administrative and clinical services.

Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer (CEO) announced the parastatal status, and called on the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to increase the bed reimbursement from Sh3,500 to Sh4,500 per day.

He noted that JOOTRH is now operating as a Level 6A facility, providing specialised care and services.

“JOOTRH recently renewed its licence from the Kenya Medical and Practitioners and Dentist Board (KMPDB) to further solidify its position as a leading healthcare provider as a National Teaching and Referral facility,” he said.

“This designation aligns with its Level 6A status and underscores its commitment to providing high-quality care and training medical professionals.”

He outlined the hospital’s plans to expand its bed capacity to at least 760, ensuring that it can meet the growing healthcare needs of the region. The new status grants the JOOTRH board, led by former Kisumu City Manager Doris Ombara greater operational autonomy in managing the hospital’s affairs, including determining its organisational structure, rewards, and sanctions.

The gazette notice announcing the parastatal status highlighted JOOTRH’s significance as the oldest and most developed medical facility in the region, serving a catchment population of over 10 million people.

It also approved the hospital to provide Level 6A hospital services, pending necessary statutory confirmations.

JOOTRH will now operate as a government entity handling referrals from within and outside Kisumu County.

“It will also continue to play a vital role in training doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in collaboration with institutions of higher learning,” said a statement from Kisumu County’s public information department.

The gazette notice dated August 30, 2024, also stated that the recurrent board and hospital management team will transition into a Semi-Autonomous Government Agency (SAGA).