Dr. Priscilla Kashero, a Paediatrician and the Medical Superintendent at Mariakani Hospital, was part of a delegation of health officials from Kilifi County who embarked on a benchmarking visit to Thumbay University Hospital from August 18th to September 8th, 2024. The primary objective of the visit was to acquire knowledge on best practices in healthcare systems that could be implemented upon their return to Kilifi County.

Notable observations from the visit included the hospital’s patient-focused approach, offering services such as online appointment scheduling, a drive-through pharmacy, and a specialized Patient Happiness Department. Additionally, the hospital is equipped with an advanced Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system that is seamlessly connected with the Ministry of Health, ensuring effective delivery of care. The delegation highlighted that the facility holds JCI and ISO certifications, possesses cutting-edge infrastructure, and boasts a well-coordinated staff consisting of 240 doctors and 150 nurses.

Furthermore, the delegation commended the hospital’s organized pharmacy operations, regulated antibiotic usage, continuous staff training in emergency response, and rigorous infection prevention measures. They were also impressed by the hospital’s emphasis on early cancer detection, a robust ethics committee, and a comprehensive system for gathering patient feedback.

Dr. Kashero expressed appreciation for the valuable learnings acquired during the visit, acknowledging that these insights will play a vital role in advancing healthcare services in Kilifi County. The delegation returned with a clear plan to implement these best practices in order to enhance patient care and optimize hospital operations.