Bungoma County has taken a significant leap forward in strengthening Primary Health Care (PHC) with the launch of a groundbreaking accountability mechanism. The county is pioneering the implementation of the Vital Signs Profile (VSP) tool, designed to ensure and monitor PHC inputs and outcomes, ensuring enhanced healthcare delivery from the grassroots level.

The RMNCAH Network, in collaboration with the County, is spearheading this initiative through a comprehensive project on the Vital Signs Profile for Stronger Primary Health Care. A significant milestone in this journey is the establishment of the Primary Health Care Technical Working Group, (TWG). This group is tasked with the critical responsibility of reviewing and updating the VSP dashboard, tracking PHC indicators and the following up on recommendations and action points.

Dr. Andrew Wamalwa, the County Health Executive Committee Member who graced the occasion expressed his strong support for the newly formed TWG, highlighting its crucial role in addressing primary health care issues from the grassroot level.

“The TWG will play a vital role in ensuring that we put into consideration all the aspects necessary for robust primary health care,” Dr Wamalwa stated. He further noted that Bungoma, as the first county in the country to launch the VSP tool, leverages that to significantly enhance the ability to measure and monitor PHC implementation.

Collaborative efforts for a stronger healthcare system.

Dr. Wamalwa emphasized the Importance of maintaining strong partnerships with organizations advocating for strengthened primary health care applauding RMNCAH Network for their continuous support, acknowledging their role in driving this initiative forward. “With the unwavering support from partners like RMNCAH Network, we are committed to institutionalizing the VSP tool across the entire County. This collaboration is essential for our success,” he noted

The County’s commitment to improving health care delivery is evident in its efforts to upgrade health facilities. So far, Bungoma County has launched 33 new dispensaries and upgraded 43 dispensaries to health centers, bringing the total to 54 health centers. This expansion has significantly reduced congestion at Bungoma County Referral Hospital and Webuye County Hospitals, allowing patients to receive services closer to their homes.

Empowering health workers.

A crucial aspect of Bungoma County’s strategy is the empowerment of the health workers. Dr. Wamalwa highlighted the ongoing efforts to invest in healthcare personnel, ensuring they have the necessary tools and training to deliver quality primary health care. “Investing in our health workers is key to strengthen PHC. Their dedication and improved capacity will lead to better health outcomes for our community,” he said

A future focused on health.

Looking ahead, Bungoma County remains committed to continuous improvement in health care delivery. He reaffirmed the County government’s dedication to adopting and institutionalizing of the VSP tool, ensuring its widespread implementation. “Our focus is on sustainable health solutions. We will not look back but will continue to invest in health and empower our health workers to achieve our desired goals in the county as far as quality health care is concerned,” he asserted

His sentiments were echoed by the Director Health and Sanitation Dr. Caleb Watta who is also the chairperson of the newly formed PHC Technical Working Group who affirmed his support towards strengthening Primary health care in the County saying that strengthened PHC is the vehicle towards achieving Universal Health Coverage.

The establishment of the PHC TWG in the County is a transformative step towards enhancing accountability and improving primary health care. By leveraging the VSP tool and fostering strong collaborative efforts, Bungoma County is setting a precedent for health care excellence. This initiative promises to deliver significant health benefits to the community, ensuring that quality care is accessible to all.