Eldoret, Kenya — Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) is set to begin offering cardiac surgery in Eldoret, a major milestone in the institution’s efforts to enhance access to specialized medical care in the region.
This transformative development was confirmed by Dr. Philip Kirwa, Chief Executive Officer of MTRH, who revealed that preparations are ongoing to conduct the first 10 heart surgeries for patients diagnosed with various cardiac conditions.
“With this cardiac surgery program, we’ll now be able to treat patients locally, minimizing the financial and emotional strain of seeking treatment abroad,” said Dr. Kirwa during a media briefing at the hospital.
For years, patients from Eldoret and surrounding counties have been forced to travel overseas—or to Nairobi—for life-saving heart operations. A media spot-check indicated that the lack of local, advanced heart care services has been a major challenge for families across Western Kenya.
A Regional Hub for Specialized Healthcare
With this new offering, MTRH aims to further solidify its role as a top-tier referral hospital in Kenya, serving not only local residents but also patients from neighboring East African countries.
The availability of cardiac surgery services in Eldoret is expected to:
- Reduce medical tourism expenses
- Shorten wait times for heart procedures
- Improve survival rates for heart patients
- Support Kenya’s goal of decentralized specialized healthcare
Dr. Kirwa also acknowledged the recent appointment of Dr. Ouma Oluga as the new Principal Secretary for Health, calling it a “significant achievement” for both MTRH and the national health sector.
“Dr. Oluga understands the practical challenges within Kenya’s healthcare system. His leadership will be key in advancing sustainable, patient-centered solutions,” he noted.
Government Commitment to Healthcare Decentralization
While touring MTRH, Dr. Oluga praised the hospital’s operational efficiency and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to decentralizing healthcare services.
“Our long-term vision is for MTRH to focus on complex, specialized cases, while general hospitals handle less critical care. This shift will reduce congestion and ensure patients receive faster services,” said Dr. Oluga.
As Kenya’s second-largest referral facility, MTRH continues to evolve into a regional center of medical excellence. The upcoming launch of cardiac surgeries in Eldoret marks a major step forward in expanding access to quality healthcare for all.
