We're loading the full news article for you. This includes the article content, images, author information, and related articles.
**A landmark agreement positions the doctors' union as a central partner in the Kisumu hospital's ambitious journey to national referral status, aiming to enhance patient care and staff welfare.**

Kisumu's premier hospital is poised for a historic transformation after its management and the national doctors' union signed a pivotal agreement to guide its upgrade to a Level 6 facility.
This pact solidifies the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) as a key stakeholder in the transition of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH). The move is critical for Western Kenya, promising to bring highly specialized healthcare closer to millions and bolster the working conditions for medical staff.
The agreement, signed by KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Bhimji Atellah and JOOTRH CEO Dr. Joshua Clinton Okise, establishes a formal framework for engagement on matters of human resources and service delivery.
The elevation to a Level 6 facility places JOOTRH in the same league as Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH). This status means the hospital will be managed as a state corporation under the national government, unlocking significant funding and administrative independence. For the average Kenyan in the region, this translates to:
The journey is already underway, with the hospital's elevation having been approved by the Cabinet in March 2025 and gazetted in June 2025. Dr. Okise noted that February 2026 is the target for completing staff transitions and harmonizing salary structures.
Dr. Atellah described the agreement as a “timely milestone,” emphasizing that the union's strategic involvement will serve as a model for other county hospitals slated for similar upgrades. "Safeguarding the welfare of healthcare workers ultimately translates into superior patient care," Atellah stated.
As JOOTRH embarks on this ambitious path, all eyes in the Lake Basin are on whether this new partnership can deliver a future of accessible, top-tier medical care close to home.
Keep the conversation in one place—threads here stay linked to the story and in the forums.
Other hot threads
E-sports and Gaming Community in Kenya
Active 7 months ago
Popular Recreational Activities Across Counties
Active 7 months ago
The Role of Technology in Modern Agriculture (AgriTech)
Active 7 months ago
Investing in Youth Sports Development Programs
Active 7 months ago