Patients at risk as X-rays break down

Patients in Busia are being referred to private clinics or the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret after X-ray machines at the county referral hospital broke down.

The two old X-ray machines that have been in service since the year 2000 broke down in February last year.

Hospital administrator Erick Wamalwa said the main machine was beyond repair while the second could only be used on the hands and legs.

“Technicians have ruled out repairs to the old machines,” he said.

MAJOR CHALLENGE

Mr Wamalwa said the situation was a major challenge as patients in serious condition had to be taken elsewhere, increasing the risk of worsening injuries.

Ms Alice Onyango, whose daughter was involved in an accident in Busia, had to be moved to Eldoret.

“I am shocked that a referral hospital lacks X-ray machines. The county government needs to up its game,” she said.

Like Ms Onyango, many other people have to dig deeper into their pockets to travel long distances to seek X-ray services from private hospitals.

“Public hospitals charge Sh300 for a chest X-ray while private ones charge between Sh700 and Sh1,000 which most of us can’t afford,” said Mr Joseph Oumah, a resident.

LACK OF DRUGS

The hospital also lacks essential drugs and other medical equipment.

“The hospital lacks equipment to handle emergencies yet it is a referral hospital. Even tetanus injections are not available,” said Mr Oumah.

County Chief Officer Asoka Itur admitted there was a problem but said the administration was addressing the matter.

Dr Itur said there was no money to buy new X-ray equipment but funds would be set aside to try and repair the old ones.