JOOTRH Strengthens Emergency Care with Advanced Life-Support Ambulance

News Updated: 19 December 2025 16:48 EAT

Patients in Kisumu and across the wider Lake Region will now have faster and safer emergency referrals following the delivery of a fully equipped advanced life-support ambulance to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH). The ambulance was donated by the World Health Organization (WHO) in partnership with the Ministry of Health.

The donation is part of a fleet of 14 emergency ambulances distributed by WHO to seven national referral hospitals and the National Emergency Response Centre, supporting ongoing health sector reforms under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme.

Speaking during the launch at the hospital on Thursday, JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr Richard Okise said the ambulance will significantly reduce delays in emergency response and minimise high-risk referrals to distant facilities such as Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH).

“This ambulance is not just a vehicle; it is a fully functional mobile ICU. It allows us to refer critically ill patients safely and with dignity while maintaining advanced medical support throughout the journey,” said Dr. Okise.

He noted that the donation comes at a critical time following JOOTRH’s elevation to a national teaching and referral hospital, which has resulted in increased patient volumes and more complex cases.

Dr. Okise added that the ambulance is already easing pressure on referrals by enabling more patients to be treated locally. “Where referrals are unavoidable, patients can now be transferred in a controlled and well-equipped environment, greatly improving their chances of survival,” he said.

Beyond JOOTRH, the ambulance will support emergency response across the Lake Region and will be integrated into regional Emergency Operations and Coordination Centres, working closely with county and sub-county hospitals.

“This ambulance will serve the entire region. Through coordinated emergency systems, critically ill patients will be quickly linked to the nearest appropriate facility without unnecessary delays,” Dr. Okise said.

He further assured stakeholders that the ambulance will be properly maintained and strictly used for medical emergencies, operated by trained healthcare professionals.

JOOTRH Senior Director of Finance and Administration Evans Oloo described the donation as a significant boost to the hospital’s emergency and referral capacity. “We are grateful to receive this fully equipped ambulance. It will significantly enhance our ability to manage critically ill patients, especially those requiring referral to higher levels of care,” said Oloo.

He noted that the ambulance is particularly crucial for complex referrals, including cases that may require air evacuation or advanced clinical intervention.

Since its elevation to a national teaching and referral facility, JOOTRH has expanded specialised services, recruited additional specialists, and invested in modern medical equipment, positioning itself as a key referral hub for western Kenya and neighbouring countries.

With the advanced life-support ambulance now operational, JOOTRH officials say emergency care in the Lake Region has taken a major step forward, offering renewed hope to patients who previously faced long and risky journeys in search of critical medical care.