Kenya Health Minister Pledges Quick Fix for Medical System Issues.
Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa promised Tuesday to solve technical problems affecting the new Social Health Authority. She said the Taifa Care program will expand across Kenya, benefiting more citizens.
"Over 500,000 Kenyans have received care since we started this program," Barasa said. The government has paid facilities that provide these medical services.
The minister acknowledged system failures but noted that similar problems occur in other countries. She highlighted growth from the previous system, saying SHA covers 18 million people—triple the number under the old National Hospital Insurance Fund.
"Our goal includes every Kenyan," Barasa said. A new server arrived Friday, with technicians working to improve service. "When all Kenyans can access care, it will change everything."
The ministry plans to tackle waiting times and technical issues after achieving full coverage. Teams visit each county to identify local problems.
Public complaints about SHA, which began in October 2024, prompted Parliament to take action. The National Assembly ordered Health Committee Chair Robert Pukose to investigate ministry responses to system problems.
Last week, lawmakers questioned Medical Services Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai and SHA Board Chairman Abdi Mohamed. They raised concerns about poor service, weak communication, limited funding, unclear rules, and strained relations between citizens and healthcare providers.
Barasa stressed three main priorities: "Access, cost, and quality remain essential as we move forward."
Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa promised Tuesday to solve technical problems affecting the new Social Health Authority. She said the Taifa Care program will expand across Kenya, benefiting more citizens.
"Over 500,000 Kenyans have received care since we started this program," Barasa said. The government has paid facilities that provide these medical services.
The minister acknowledged system failures but noted that similar problems occur in other countries. She highlighted growth from the previous system, saying SHA covers 18 million people—triple the number under the old National Hospital Insurance Fund.
"Our goal includes every Kenyan," Barasa said. A new server arrived Friday, with technicians working to improve service. "When all Kenyans can access care, it will change everything."
The ministry plans to tackle waiting times and technical issues after achieving full coverage. Teams visit each county to identify local problems.
Public complaints about SHA, which began in October 2024, prompted Parliament to take action. The National Assembly ordered Health Committee Chair Robert Pukose to investigate ministry responses to system problems.
Last week, lawmakers questioned Medical Services Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai and SHA Board Chairman Abdi Mohamed. They raised concerns about poor service, weak communication, limited funding, unclear rules, and strained relations between citizens and healthcare providers.
Barasa stressed three main priorities: "Access, cost, and quality remain essential as we move forward."
