This archive report was first published on 25 November 2019.
Nairobi residents can now breathe a sigh of relief with City Hall set to roll out general outpatient services at Pumwani Maternity Hospital starting Wednesday, November 27, 2019.
For decades, the hospital has only offered inpatient services, but the county government has been working to change this.
According to Nairobi County Health chief officer Mohammed Sahal, an outpatient unit has already been installed with healthcare equipment at a cost of Sh10 million.
He added that medical drugs worth Sh2 million have already been purchased as the county government sets in motion the outpatient programme that is set to enhance access to affordable healthcare by members of the public.
“Our aim is to make affordable health services accessible to everyone. The outpatient unit will handle minor ailments such as malaria, typhoid, emergency injuries and others catering to the public’s increasing basic health needs without unnecessary referrals,” said Mr Sahal.
The outpatient unit will offer laboratory services, comprehensive care, physiotherapy services, and screening for basic tests like blood sugar and hypertension.
Mothers will also be able to access comprehensive healthcare including pre-natal and post-natal care at affordable rates.
A medical officer will be in charge of the unit, and there is a consultant in place who will handle special cases. Special nurses and clinical officers will also be on hand to offer their services in the unit.
Staff from the maternity facility as well as students from neighbouring schools will also be able to access the outpatient services.
“The basic health needs of staff will also be met at a central point so as to facilitate retention of their services and also instead of going to CBD or outskirts of city centre, students will also be able to easily access healthcare,” said Mr Sahal.
On his part, the hospital’s Medical Superintendent Dr Farhia Abdirahman stated that the facility is determined to offer the best services to the public.
