Dermatology Services
Dermatology Services at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) are offered through the Dermatology Clinic based at Chandaria Cancer and Chronic Disease Centre (CCCDC).
The clinic provides cost-effective, accessible care in the management of skin conditions as well as specialized dermatology services including; dermatologic surgery, dermato-pathology and phototherapy.
MTRH in partnership with University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Psoriasis and Skin Treatment Center, has enabled the Dermatology Clinic to provide Narrow Band Ultraviolet B phototherapy treatment for atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma, Prurigo Nodulosis and Vitiligo skin conditions among others. MTRH seeks to continually offer Specialty Chronic wound care and Dermatology services in line with the Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Skin conditions are neglected at most levels of care despite its effects on patient quality of life especially when they undergo distress due to pain, itching, discomfort and disruption of their activities of daily living as well as low self-esteem attached to having a skin ailment.
Similarly, Chronic wounds cause untold suffering to patients lives and livelihoods due to reduced mobility, pain, foul discharge, stigma and social isolation. This has great effect on patients social and economic well being.
The Phototherapy treatment – using the FOLDALITE 32 nbUVB machine – has been ongoing at our Dermatology Clinic since February 2018 with over 70 patients weekly having between 2-3 sessions. Phototherapy (light therapy) involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light on a regular basis. The Narrow band Ultraviolet B, is given 2-3 times per week as light exposure slows down the growth of affected skin cells offering treatment and management of existing skin conditions.
The Dermatology Clinic is run by a multidisciplinary team, comprising; Consultant Dermatologists, Dermato-pathologist, Clinicians, Specialized Care Nurses, Pharmacists, Phototherapists and Psychological Counselors.
The Clinic has also adopted tele-dermatology program to increase access to dermatological care through remote consults, patient follow-up and support.
The Dermatology Clinic in partnership with UCSF continues with community-based outreach program to sensitize and educate the public on dermatologic conditions, their treatment and management by providing a downward referral and mentorship to the lower level facilities.
The National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) covers its insured clients for phototherapy services at the MTRH Dermatology Clinic, for up to eight phototherapy sessions.