New dispensaries in Kirinyaga offer hope in fight to reduce lifestyle disease burden

These dispensaries and health centres offer free screening and specialized clinics for diabetes and hypertension, following reports ranking Kirinyaga among counties with the highest prevalence of these ailments.

County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Medical Services, Public Health, and Sanitation, Dr. George Karoki, emphasized that the new facilities strengthen primary healthcare, a key component of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

The County Government has constructed 20 new dispensaries and health centers, with 11 already operational, including South Ngariama, Umoja, Kiandai, Kiamwathi, Kianjiru, Kiaumbui, Matandara, Mucagara, Kamwana, Riakithiga Laboratory, and Joshua Mbai Laboratory.

These facilities have reduced costs and improved access to treatment for hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, and cancer. Previously, only Kerugoya County Referral Hospital, Kianyaga, Kimbimbi, and Sagana hospitals offered specialized clinics for non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Dr Karoki noted that integrating dispensaries and health centres into NCD management allows for early detection and better patient outcomes.

"We are now checking all patients visiting our facilities before they see a doctor. Additionally, we have rolled out specialized clinics for those already diagnosed," he said.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy by the County Government, which fully funded the construction of these medical facilities.

As of 2024, statistics indicate 17,200 cases of hypertension and 5,000 cases of diabetes in Kirinyaga. Early detection through community-based screening is crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality.

Governor Anne Waiguru underscored the importance of strengthening primary healthcare infrastructure in improving service delivery and achieving UHC.

"With well-equipped dispensaries handling primary healthcare, level four and five hospitals can focus on more complex cases," she stated.

Other interventions include the provision of essential medicines, a 24-hour ambulance referral system, and training for community health promoters and healthcare workers in managing hypertension, diabetes, and common cancers.

Residents have lauded the initiative for bringing healthcare services closer to them. Stella Wambui from Mucagara village shared her relief at no longer needing to travel long distances for medical care. John Gitari, who receives arthritis treatment, credited the dispensary for timely intervention that prevented complications. Similarly, Jane Wambere from Gathigiriri ward praised Matara dispensary for supporting expectant mothers and children.