Mulele Level 3 Hospital commissioned to boost healthcare access in Vihiga
VICTOR ZEDY AND ROSE WASIKE -KNA
The Government, in partner ship with the Vihiga County Government and health stakeholders, has commissioned Mulele Level 3 Hospital in Lugaga Ward, Vihiga County aiming at bringing quality healthcare ser vices closer to residents.
The facility, formerly operating as Mulele Dispensary, has been upgraded to a 32-bed Level 3 hospital to strengthen primary healthcare, improve maternal and newborn services and support the Government’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda at the grassroots.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr Ouma Oluga reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to expanding access to quality and affordable healthcare services across the country.
Dr Oluga commended the local community, Vihiga County Government and development partners for supporting the trans formation of the facility from a small dispensary staffed by a single healthcare worker into a fully operational hospital.
He said the development demonstrated the importance of collaboration between the national and county governments in advancing the country’s UHC agenda.
“Mulele Level 3 Hospital is not just a health facility; it is a symbol of our Universal Health Coverage agenda, a source of pride for this community and a foundation for a healthier and more productive Vihiga County,” Dr Oluga said.
The facility will offer outpatient and inpatient services, maternal and newborn healthcare, spe cialised clinics and emergency services.
He urged residents to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA), saying increased regis tration would enhance access to healthcare while reducing the financial burden of seeking treatment.
The PS said SHA registration would also strengthen healthcare financing through the Primary Healthcare Fund and other SHA-supported programmes, enabling health facilities to improve service delivery.
Dr Oluga said eligible primary healthcare services offered at Level 3 facilities are provided free of charge, with facilities reimbursed through the Primary Healthcare Fund