𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐲𝐚’𝐬 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐇𝐈𝐅 𝐝𝐞𝐛𝐭𝐬 & 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞.

BY FLORENCE SIMIYU, TMG JOURNALIST

In a groundbreaking move to tackle the healthcare crisis gripping Kenya, the government has announced plans to settle all pending hospital claims of Ksh.10 million and below from the now-defunct NHIF. President William Ruto, acknowledging the Ksh.33 billion NHIF debt inherited by his administration, has taken decisive action to ease the burden on public, private, and faith-based hospitals.

With a laser focus on addressing the pressing needs of healthcare facilities, the government has committed to immediate payment for hospitals with claims of Ksh.10 million and below, which represent a staggering 91% of NHIF-contracted facilities. This swift action aims to inject much-needed financial relief into the healthcare system.

For hospitals with claims exceeding the specified amount, a rigorous 90-day verification process will precede payment, ensuring transparency and accountability. A verification committee is set to be gazetted within a week to oversee this critical step. To date, the government has already disbursed Ksh.18.2 billion for undisputed claims, underscoring its dedication to resolving the healthcare crisis.

But the government’s efforts do not stop there. In a bid to enhance healthcare benefits and accessibility, the Social Health Authority (SHA) has expanded its offerings. Health CS Dr. Deborah Barasa has announced a significant increase in ICU and HDU capacity, soaring from 4,600 to an impressive 28,000. Additionally, the oncology care package has been boosted from Ksh.400,000 to Ksh.550,000 per household, making vital cancer treatment more attainable for all.

An image of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF)-𝙲𝚁𝙴𝙳𝙸𝚃𝚂 𝙵𝙰𝙲𝙴𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺

To streamline patient care coordination and data sharing, 15 high-volume hospitals will be seamlessly integrated into a digital healthcare information exchange system. This innovative approach promises to revolutionize healthcare delivery and enhance patient outcomes.

Furthermore, a 24-hour call center is on the horizon to provide real-time support to patients and healthcare providers, ensuring that assistance is always within reach. This proactive measure underscores the government’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of all Kenyans and fostering a healthcare system that is responsive and accessible to all.

EDITOR’S PICK!

As the government reaffirms its dedication to Universal Health Coverage (UHC), it sends a resounding message that accessible healthcare is a fundamental right for every citizen, without discrimination. With these bold initiatives and unwavering commitment, Kenya is poised to usher in a new era of healthcare excellence and inclusivity for all.