The second batch of pharmaceuticals and non pharmaceutical medicine worth Kshs. 22 Million has been delivered to various health centers and dispensaries across the county.
The distribution of free essential medicines and non medicinal consignments kicked off on the 26th may with level 2 to 3 health centers including Dago Kakore Dispensary in Kisumu West and Railways Dispensary in Kisumu central sub counties receiving their consignments.
Other facilities that received drugs included, Nyalunya health center, Angola community dispensary, Kuoyo health center, Orongo dispensary, Kawino Health center, Nyalenda health center, Pandpieri health center, Dunga health center, Sayyid Aisha health center, Administration Police line Dispensary, Police line dispensary among others.
The exercise is aimed at addressing drug shortage witnessed across the county. The drugs are supplied and distributed through the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), who is committed to steady supply to the County.
The availability of medicine in the lower level health facilities will ascertain the quality of health provision in health facilities in order to cope with the increasing burden COVID-19 and other health related issues.
According to the nursing officer, Ruth Njau, Dago Kokore dispensary is a level 3 facility which serves Dago and Kogony catchment areas with a target population of 3900.
” We have received antibacterial drugs for both adults and pediatrics, disinfectants, surgical gloves among other drugs.” said Ms. Njau.
The area resident, Mrs. Juliana Ogola was glad that the medicine was now available for them who will be seeking medication from the health facility.
Speaking to the Director public health and sanitation, Mr. Fred Oluoch said the county is currently receiving drugs for level 3 and 4 facilities across the county.
The directors implored health workers to ensure drug security, urging residents to seek medication in the health facilities even in the face of COVID-19 pandemic adding that the County health department has put in place systems in all the health facilities for monitoring the flow of drugs from hospital pharmacies to patients to ensure drug security.