Kenya’s Commitment to Universal Health Coverage
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC), emphasizing that all primary health care services are now fully free of charge in public Level 2 to Level 4 health facilities across the country. This initiative is part of broader efforts to ensure that every Kenyan can access essential health services without facing financial hardship.
In a recent statement, Duale stressed that no Kenyan should be required to pay for primary health care (PHC) services at these facilities if they are registered and have been activated under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). The coverage includes a wide range of essential medical services, ensuring that citizens receive comprehensive care.
Key Services Covered Under Free PHC
The free PHC services include clinical consultations, diagnosis, and treatment. Patients can also benefit from prescribed laboratory tests and the dispensing of medication. Basic radiological services such as X-rays and ultrasounds are also included in the package.
Additionally, the program covers the management of both acute and chronic conditions, along with mental health support. This means that individuals dealing with long-term illnesses or psychological challenges can access necessary care without additional costs.
Immunization services under the Kenya Expanded Programme on Immunisation (KEPI) are also available at no cost. This includes regular vaccinations for children and adults, helping to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Other covered services include screening for common illnesses, minor outpatient procedures, and care for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), sexually transmitted infections, and HIV/AIDS. These services are crucial for maintaining public health and preventing the progression of serious conditions.
Comprehensive Reproductive and Maternal Care
Reproductive, maternal, and child health services are an integral part of the PHC package. This includes antenatal and postnatal care, which plays a vital role in ensuring the health of both mothers and their newborns. Access to these services helps reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.
Kenyans seeking mental health services, including education, counseling, and psychosocial support, are also eligible for free medical care. This includes screening for common illnesses and minor outpatient procedures done under local anesthesia.
Care for non-communicable diseases and enteric infections is fully covered under the SHIF, ensuring that individuals with conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and gastrointestinal disorders can receive ongoing treatment.
Collaboration and Implementation
Duale called for full cooperation from county governments and health workers to enforce this policy effectively. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that eligible Kenyans receive timely and dignified care. This collaboration is essential to make the UHC agenda a reality across the country.
The Ministry of Health continues to work towards strengthening access to quality, affordable healthcare for all Kenyans. This aligns with President William Ruto’s UHC agenda, which is a key pillar of his administration’s health reforms.
Structure of the UHC Plan
The UHC plan was officially launched in October 2023 and is anchored on the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023. It comprises three new funds under the Social Health Authority (SHA):
- Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF): Covers essential primary and secondary healthcare for all Kenyans.
- Chronic Illness and Emergency Fund: Supports care for long-term diseases and emergencies.
- Primary Healthcare Fund: Finances basic preventive and promotive care, including services at Level 1–4 facilities.
These funds work together to create a more equitable and accessible healthcare system, ensuring that all Kenyans can benefit from essential health services regardless of their economic status.
