According to a new policy brief, Kenya struggles with healthcare system changes as it moves from the National Health Insurance Fund to the Social Health Insurance Fund while pushing digital access.
The March 2025 report from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights and partners shows the digital divide threatens to leave behind rural communities, women, elderly citizens, and persons with disabilities.
Despite legal frameworks supporting digital health, implementation varies widely between countries. The poorest areas often lack basic needs like electricity and internet access.
Data security remains a major concern. Many health facilities lack proper protection systems for patient information, leaving sensitive details at risk despite existing privacy laws.
The government's decision to outsource the new system to a private consortium led by Safaricom raises questions about accountability and the commercialization of public health resources.
Technical problems have already disrupted healthcare for many Kenyans, with biometric verification and claims processing systems failing.
Experts recommend improving rural digital infrastructure, training healthcare workers on new systems, addressing gender barriers, creating offline alternatives, and increasing coordination between national and county governments.
The March 2025 report from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights and partners shows the digital divide threatens to leave behind rural communities, women, elderly citizens, and persons with disabilities.
Despite legal frameworks supporting digital health, implementation varies widely between countries. The poorest areas often lack basic needs like electricity and internet access.
Data security remains a major concern. Many health facilities lack proper protection systems for patient information, leaving sensitive details at risk despite existing privacy laws.
The government's decision to outsource the new system to a private consortium led by Safaricom raises questions about accountability and the commercialization of public health resources.
Technical problems have already disrupted healthcare for many Kenyans, with biometric verification and claims processing systems failing.
Experts recommend improving rural digital infrastructure, training healthcare workers on new systems, addressing gender barriers, creating offline alternatives, and increasing coordination between national and county governments.
