Tana River County has reintroduced CT scan services to avoid costly patient referrals to Mombasa. The county reported that each referral to Mombasa cost at least Sh30,000 in fuel alone. Patients previously sought scans outside the county and paid between Sh150,000 and Sh200,000 per scan.
The new service aims to provide affordable healthcare options within the region. Local authorities emphasized the importance of reducing financial burdens on patients. The initiative is part of broader efforts to improve healthcare accessibility.
This development follows years of challenges in medical infrastructure. Tana River has long faced shortages of specialized equipment. The county’s health department worked with local providers to install the CT scanner. The service is expected to benefit hundreds of residents annually.
The move reflects growing investment in regional healthcare. It also highlights the need for sustainable medical solutions in rural areas. Health officials are now focusing on training staff to operate the new equipment. The service is a step toward reducing reliance on distant urban centers for critical care.
