The government has renewed its focus on strengthening access to healthcare as part of broader reforms aimed at improving service delivery across the country.
Recent engagements by senior officials have emphasized the need for a health system that is inclusive, efficient and responsive to the needs of ordinary citizens, particularly those facing economic hardship.
Speaking during a public forum on health financing reforms, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the Ministry of Health is prioritising equity as Kenya transitions to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
He noted that the reforms are designed to correct long-standing gaps that have seen millions of Kenyans struggle to afford essential medical services, despite healthcare being a constitutional right.
Duale said the national government is taking direct responsibility for households that are unable to contribute to the new insurance scheme due to extreme poverty.
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Under SHIF, the government is currently sponsoring 558,000 very poor households, ensuring they can access healthcare services without facing financial strain.
He described the move as a deliberate effort to protect the most vulnerable from being excluded during the ongoing reforms.
According to the CS, the sponsored households were identified through existing government social protection databases, including those covering orphans, older persons and persons living with severe disabilities.
He said this approach allows the government to target support where it is needed most while minimising abuse of the system.
Duale further explained that SHIF is structured to promote fairness by requiring those who can afford to contribute to do so, while the state cushions those who cannot.
He added that the ministry is revealed that continuous reviews are being conducted to ensure the list of sponsored households remains accurate and up to date, especially as economic conditions change.
The CS also assured Kenyans that the transition from the defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to SHIF is being monitored closely to prevent service disruptions.
He acknowledged concerns raised by health workers and the public, but insisted that the reforms will ultimately lead to better financing, timely payments to hospitals and improved quality of care.
Duale called on county governments, health facilities and community leaders to work with the national government in sensitising the public about SHIF.
He said increased awareness is critical to building trust and ensuring more Kenyans understand their rights and obligations under the new system.
He reiterated that the ministry remains committed to the principle that no Kenyan should be denied healthcare due to inability to pay, adding that the success of SHIF will be judged by how well it serves the poorest and most vulnerable members of society.
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