Kenya has taken a significant step in advancing its digital health agenda with the launch of the country’s first fully digitized rural hospital at Balambala Sub-County in Garissa County. The milestone marks the beginning of a new era where rural communities will access healthcare powered by technology, bridging disparities and strengthening service delivery.
The introduction of a Health Management Information System (HMIS) at Balambala Sub-County Hospital positions it as the first rural Level 4 facility to be fully digitized. This move aligns with the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda and underscores the government’s commitment to ensure equitable health services across all counties.
To support the transition, the hospital has been equipped with 40 digital devices and 35 healthcare workers have undergone specialized training. This initiative will enable healthcare providers to securely access patient records, improve coordination of care, minimize errors, and significantly reduce quack practices in the medical field.
The unveiling coincided with the conclusion of a three-day free medical and surgical camp in Balambala. During the camp, 1,994 patients benefited from a range of services, including consultations, wellness screenings, and health education. Beyond medical interventions, the camp also facilitated health financing reforms by registering residents under the Social Health Authority (SHA). So far, 1,786 residents have enrolled, representing 19 percent of Garissa County’s population of 171,730.
The refurbishment and expansion of the Balambala Level 4 facility is expected to significantly boost healthcare access for rural communities in the region. With digitization in place, patients will now experience faster and more efficient services, while healthcare workers will benefit from streamlined operations and better tools for clinical decision-making.
The initiative also highlighted the importance of partnerships in improving healthcare. Collaboration between the national and county governments, alongside other stakeholders, has been instrumental in delivering the medical camp and implementing the digital transition.
The digitization of Balambala Hospital serves as a model for scaling up technology-driven healthcare across Kenya. As the country continues to invest in digital health infrastructure, rural communities are set to benefit from modernized services that not only improve outcomes but also bring the nation closer to achieving universal healthcare for all.
