Balambala Hospital becomes first in rural Kenya to implement HMIS

KENYA— The Ministry of Health has reached a significant milestone in the country’s health sector by activating the Health Management Information System (HMIS) at Balambala Sub-County Hospital in Garissa County.

This development marks the first time a rural Sub-County hospital in Kenya has been fully digitized, demonstrating the government’s commitment to expanding technology-driven health services across all counties, regardless of socioeconomic differences.

The launch of the digital system coincided with the conclusion of a three-day free medical and surgical camp held in the region.

This camp aimed to bring essential healthcare services closer to rural communities that often face barriers to access.

During the event, the hospital was equipped with 40 digital devices, and 35 healthcare professionals received training to efficiently use the new system.

These efforts directly support Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals by improving the quality and accessibility of healthcare.

With the digital system in place, healthcare providers at Balambala Sub-County Hospital can securely access patient records, enabling better coordination of care.

 This advancement is expected to reduce medical errors and help eliminate fraudulent health practices that can harm patients and undermine trust in the health system.

Overall, the use of HMIS will allow for more accurate and timely decision-making, leading to better patient outcomes.

During the medical camp, Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale toured the renovated and expanded Level 4 hospital.

The improvements to the facility will significantly enhance healthcare access for rural populations in Garissa County, providing more advanced services directly in the area rather than requiring patients to travel long distances.

The camp also supported Kenya’s ongoing health financing reforms through increased enrollment in the Social Health Authority (SHA).

By the end of the event, 1,786 residents had registered under SHA, which amounts to 19% of Garissa County’s total population of 171,730.

This enrollment helps increase financial protection for patients and promotes sustainable health funding.

In total, 1,994 patients benefited from the free medical camp, receiving services such as medical consultations, wellness check-ups, and health education.

 These services are critical in improving community health awareness and encouraging preventive care practices.

The free medical and surgical camp was organized through a partnership between the Garissa County Government, the Ministry of Health, and other stakeholders.

Their joint effort reflects a shared commitment to expanding quality healthcare services to underserved areas.

Hon. Aden Duale, who led the event, was hosted by local leaders including Governor Nadhif Jama, Senator Abdul Haji, and Members of Parliament Hon. Abdi Shurie (Balambala), Hon. Sala Yakub (Fafi), and Major (Rtd) Dekow Barrow (Garissa Town), among others.

 Their presence highlights the importance of collaborative leadership in improving health outcomes for Kenyan communities.

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