Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr Ouma Oluga has
lauded the Kenya Nephrology Nurses Association (KNNA) for its contributions to
renal care in Kenya.
Speaking when he closed the association’s 11th Annual Scientific Conference in Kisumu, Oluga acknowledged that since its inception, KNNA has maintained a strong collaborative relationship with the Kenya Renal Association (KRA) on matters pertaining to nephrology practice in Kenya.
Oluga noted that a collaboration between KNNA and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital saw the two conduct a successful 3-day Arterial Venous Fistula (AVF) camp at JOOTRH.
During this camp, 54 patients underwent screening.
On the first day of surgery, 10 patients benefited from successful procedures, with an additional 20 scheduled for surgery.
“While some patients were unsuitable due to medical reasons or required more complex procedures such as arteriovenous grafts, I am pleased to report that 15 patients received this crucial and affordable surgery,” Oluga said.
The AVF project was launched in 2016 in partnership with Kenyatta National Hospital, the University of Nairobi, and Taiwan’s National Cheng Kung University.
The objectives of the AVF project at JOOTRH were to enhance the quality of vascular access for patients requiring chronic hemodialysis.
This was to be achieved by creating reliable and long-lasting arteriovenous fistulas that ensure efficient blood flow during dialysis.
The project also aimed to provide comprehensive education to patients regarding AVF creation, care, and potential complications, thereby fostering informed decision-making and optimal fistula management.
“This initiative successfully contributed to capacity building within JOOTRH to perform regular AVF fashioning procedures and fostered the development of institutional collaborations for ongoing projects that will benefit patients accessing care at JOOTRH.”
The project has so far benefited over 400 patients at Kenyatta National Hospital and various county hospitals in Nyeri, Meru, Isiolo, Narok, Nakuru, Bomet, and Laikipia Counties.
The collaborative outreaches have involved the expertise of vascular surgeons, nephrologists, and nurses from NCKU Hospital and KNH/University of Nairobi.
"The success of these endeavors has been made possible through the generous support and facilitation of NCKU Hospital, KNH, UoN, KRA, KNNA, and other partners," he said.
The PS also welcomed the elevation of JOOTRH to a national parastatal, terming it a major step for healthcare delivery in the region.
He reiterated the commitment by the Ministry of Health to ensuring a smooth transition to the new status.
According to Oluga, the elevation of JOOTRH to a national facility will not only bring services closer to the people but also enhance the quality of healthcare services in the region.
