Russia Hospital (JOOTRH) Nears Parastatal Status
-
- September 4, 2024
Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH, famously called Russia) is on the verge of a historic transformation, transitioning from a government entity to a parastatal under the County Government of Kisumu. This advancement marks a pivotal moment in the hospital’s journey, as it embarks on a comprehensive strategic plan and a transformative management agenda aimed at enhancing both administrative and clinical services.
Recently, JOOTRH renewed its license with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), further solidifying its commitment to delivering high-quality care and training the next generation of medical professionals.
Ambitious plans are underway to increase the hospital’s bed capacity to at least 760 beds, a critical expansion that will enable JOOTRH to better meet the growing healthcare demands of the region.
The elevation of JOOTRH to parastatal status fulfills a promise made during the inauguration of the hospital’s Prime Care amenity wing. This new status will grant the hospital’s board, led by Ms. Doris Ombara, greater operational autonomy. This includes more effective management of the hospital’s operations, determination of its organizational structure, and implementation of reward and sanction systems.
A gazette notice announcing the parastatal status emphasized JOOTRH’s importance as the oldest and most developed medical facility in the region, serving a catchment area of over 10 million people. The notice also granted approval for JOOTRH to provide Level 6A hospital services, pending necessary statutory confirmations.
As a parastatal, JOOTRH will continue to function as a government entity, managing referrals both within and outside Kisumu County, while maintaining its crucial role in training healthcare professionals in collaboration with institutions of higher learning.
Looking forward, JOOTRH plans to expand its services by establishing specialized centers for oncology, neonatal pediatrics, surgery, and radiology. The gazette notice dated August 30, 2024, also noted that the hospital’s management will transition into a Semi-Autonomous Government Agency (SAGA), a move anticipated to further enhance the hospital’s efficiency and effectiveness.
