By:Glory Mwagambo
Health authorities in Kilifi County have moved to address complaints of poor service delivery and staff absenteeism at Malindi Sub-County Hospital following an unannounced inspection of the facility.
The inspection, led by County Executive Committee Member for Health Peter Mwarogo, followed complaints from patients over long waiting times and delays in receiving laboratory results.
Mwarogo said some staff had been identified for alleged negligence and would face disciplinary action, as the county seeks to improve efficiency in public health facilities.
He said the county currently has more than 1,600 health workers and plans to recruit additional staff to ease pressure on existing facilities.
Officials also raised concerns over poor communication between healthcare workers and patients, promising to train staff on public relations and patient care.
The county has further improved ambulance services, including a dedicated ambulance for maternity cases. Residents requiring an ambulance can call the national emergency referral number 1535, subject to referral criteria.
Hospital management says the facility is also under pressure due to referrals from neighbouring counties, including Tana River, Lamu and parts of Garissa, increasing demand for its services.
