By Monica Nashon
A team of specialist doctors under the Kenya Association of Urological Surgeons has successfully carried out 165 free surgical procedures in Kisii County and neighbouring counties during its annual medical outreach programme.
Speaking during the exercise, the association’s chairman and consultant urologist, Dr. Joshua Matu, said the team has been stationed in Kisii since February 22, providing free surgical services to patients suffering from a wide range of urological conditions.
The surgeries were conducted at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital, and Nyamira County Referral Hospital, as well as selected private facilities including Ematata Hospital, St. Bridget Hospital, and Oasis Hospital.
Dr. Matu said all the 165 patients received treatment at no cost.
“We have operated on 165 patients free of charge. They have not paid anything at all. Twenty of them are children, while 143 are adults. The outcomes have been satisfactory,” he said. “Most of the patients have already been discharged, and those still admitted are in stable condition.”
The free medical camp, held annually during the last week of February, is part of the association’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aimed at expanding access to specialised surgical care for vulnerable populations.
According to Dr. Matu, the number of beneficiaries has steadily risen over the years, reflecting growing awareness of the programme and improved coordination. Last year, the team performed 122 surgeries in Eldoret, while about 115 patients were treated the previous year in another county.
“The increase is driven by greater awareness, population factors, and better logistical planning,” he noted.
Dr. Matu observed that most of the patients treated were men, particularly elderly males, as many urological conditions disproportionately affect men. However, the outreach also benefited women and young children with related medical needs.
Among the most complex procedures performed were reconstructive surgeries of the male urethra, which are both technically demanding and costly. Under the Social Health Authority (SHA), such procedures cost about Sh250,000 per case, while in private facilities the cost ranges between Sh400,000 and Sh500,000.
With more than 20 patients undergoing these complex surgeries during the outreach, the estimated cost savings run into millions of shillings.
“If these patients were to pay under normal circumstances, the total cost would exceed Sh2.5 million for just ten cases under SHA rates, and even more under private practice rates. This shows the real impact of this CSR initiative,” Dr. Matu explained.
He added that the association fully covers the costs of surgeons and supporting medical staff throughout the outreach period.
Reaffirming the group’s commitment to the programme, Dr. Matu said the association plans to continue holding the annual camp and expand its reach across the country.
“This is something we do every year to give back to society. Our aim is to reach as many needy patients as possible and ensure they receive quality care regardless of their financial status,” he said.