Nakuru County Chief Officer in charge of Health Services Dr Samwel Mwaura has blamed Constituency Development Fund committees in the region for setting up sub-standard hospitals in their regions.
Dr Mwaura said the move has dealt a big blow to the county health department despite its efforts to improve health services in Nakuru.
‘There are a number of facilities built by CDF committees in rural areas which lack the necessary amenities for a standard health facility such as proper ventilation and spacious rooms to accommodate patients. This has greatly stalled the department’s drive to improve health services offered to citizens in various regions of the county,’ Dr. Mwaura stated.
The county health officer was addressing journalists on Tuesday in Nakuru where he called on respective CDF committees to consult with the department before setting up hospitals.
"These facilities have largely been built without the consent of the county health department. It is in this line that I urge all CDF committees in various constituencies to involve our department while hospitals," he added.
According to Mwaura, the county government has devoted Sh2.1 billion annually in its budget to the health sector which includes acquisition of drugs and equipment as well as construction and renovation of health centres.