The Kenyatta University Teaching, Research and Referral Hospital (KUTRRH) has acquired state-of-the-art two-dimensional imaging ultrasound machine worth Sh7 million in a major boost for cancer diagnostic services.

Generously provided by AstraZeneca, the high-tech equipment was officially handed over at an event attended by hospital chief executive Ahmed Dagane. He said it could help to revolutionise the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Dagane expressed the optimism and said, “This ultrasound machine will by huge percentage reduce the time taken for diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients and it will greatly raise our ability to offer timely and effective care.”

Dagane said the hospital which now attends between 40 patients to 50 patients at the radiology department in a week noted that there has been an increasing demand for services. He revealed in the middle of the event that this new ultrasound equipment shall make it possible for the hospital to cater to 20 patients in a day, a process which would have taken a week or more in earlier systems.

On the other hand, Dagane disclosed ambitious plans by the hospital to expand its capacity so that it becomes a regional sub-specialty hospital. He reported, “No patient will need traveling abroad for medical attention. KUTRRH will be fully equipped to handle all manner of special care for patients.”

The facility consultant urologist, Dr. John Omito emphasized the value of the new equipment especially as the country has been grappling with a growing burden of prostate cancer. He said, “This machine will enable precise and effective diagnosis for the patients hence cutting the waiting time and ensuring efficacy in service delivery.”

The acquisition of this state-of-the-art cancer diagnostic equipment is a major step in KUTRRH’s endeavor to improve healthcare services, offering better diagnosis and reducing waiting times and ultimately, resulting in improved patient outcomes for those suffering from cancer in the country.