Mutomo

Mutomo is quite busy despite its relative remoteness and poor road network. Many developments have been achieved in the last few years notably –2 new generators, new hospital vehicles, solar power for one ward, a premature baby unit, extension of the I.V. Production unit, provision of a plant maintenance workshop and procurement of tools for same and construction of 4 latrines. A Quality Improvement Program continues under a volunteer nurse. The hospital has been approved as a ARV center and has been given a CD4 machine by the Government. Eye services are given by the University of Nairobi and AMREF gives a specialist surgical outreach service. Recently a Youth Peer Education Project has been launched in the area of AIDS awareness with the help of the Irish Government.

Constraints are many, especially the difficulty of retaining nurses and doctors due to remoteness. Poverty is rife and recovery of fees a major challenge. Lack of mainline electricity, efficient telephone services and bad road are other difficulties. Major sewage repairs and other internal adjustments are planned. Considerable funds still come from overseas especially in the area of capital developments. The hospital was awarded 2 NHIF awards in early 2004.