PS Kimtai Highlights Commitment to Seamless Healthcare Delivery

𝐍𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐢, 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐲𝐚 𝟑𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒  - Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Mr. Harry Kimtai, emphasized the need for seamless healthcare access during a meeting with county commissioners and health CECs from Nairobi, Central, and North Eastern regions today. 

 He directed all providers contracted under the Social Health Authority (SHA) to promptly serve patients without imposing any barriers to treatment. "If they have been contracted to provide services under SHA, they must fulfill their obligations without demanding upfront payments from patients," Kimtai stated. 

 The PS reassured Kenyans that the government is actively settling outstanding bills owed to health facilities, with 9 billion shillings expected to be paid out this week. “No registered SHA patient should be denied treatment,” he stressed. 

 To enhance SHA registration efforts, the government is establishing county committees aimed at ensuring that all Kenyans are registered by December. Over 13 million individuals have already enrolled, with 91,000 new registrations reported yesterday. The removal of upfront payment requirements allows registered individuals to access quality care at public, private, and faith-based facilities on monthly payments. 

 Kimtai also revealed that an insurance premium financing model is being developed, which will eventually provide an upfront payment option. In the meantime, monthly payment options will remain available. To address technical registration challenges, the PS confirmed that technicians have been dispatched to various counties to facilitate a smooth registration process. 

 With support from Community Health Promoters, SHA is dedicated to reaching every household, particularly those who may struggle to register independently. “Kenyans can trust that SHA registration guarantees standardized healthcare across both primary and referral levels nationwide,” Kimtai stated.