County Health Chief Officer Dismisses Mama Rachel Hospital Closure, Warns of Legal Action
“The board has no powers to shut down operations at a public health facility,” said Dr. Wangwe. “The management of healthcare institutions falls under the jurisdiction of the County Government through the Ministry of Health
Uasin Gishu County Chief officer for Promotive and Preventive Health, Dr. Paul Wangwe Ongeti, has dismissed a notice issued by the Mama Rachel Ruto Maternity Hospital Board announcing the indefinite suspension of hospital operations.
Speaking to Hubzmedia shortly after a publication by Hubzmedia following a public Notice by the boards management, Dr. Wangwe stated that the hospital remains operational and patients were being attended to in the hospital .
“The board has no powers to shut down operations at a public health facility,” said Dr. Wangwe. “The management of healthcare institutions falls under the jurisdiction of the County Government through the Ministry of Health. We are preparing to take legal action against those responsible.”
The comments came just hours after the hospital board released a public notice citing “gross interference” by the County Secretary as the reason for the indefinite closure of services, including maternity, inpatient, and outpatient care.
Contradictory Positions Stir Confusion
While the board claimed the decision was made to safeguard the hospital’s integrity and operational independence, Dr. Wangwe told Hubzmedia that such decisions can only be made through formal government channels.
The conflicting statements have caused confusion among patients and staff.
Awaiting Further Communication
Mama Rachel Ruto Maternity Hospital, officially launched by First Lady Rachel Ruto on June 11, 2024, has operated for just over a year, quickly becoming a vital maternal and neonatal referral center in the North Rift region.
Hospital management has announced plans to issue an official statement on Monday at 9:00 a.m., where more details regarding the closure notice and ongoing tensions are expected to be clarified.
In the meantime, Dr. Wangwe has urged the public to continue seeking care at the facility, insisting that the hospital remains open under the oversight of the County Ministry of Health.
About Author
