DCI Takes Over Healthcare Fraud Investigations
the DCI said, are of individuals, companies, and institutions who are suspected to be engaged in fraudulent activities within the healthcare industry.
The cases, the DCI said, are of individuals, companies, and institutions who are suspected to be engaged in fraudulent activities within the healthcare industry.
By Juliet Jerotich
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has assumed responsibility for 1,188 healthcare fraud files. The files were previously handled by the Social Health Authority (SHA) and Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC).
The cases, the DCI said, are of individuals, companies, and institutions who are suspected to be engaged in fraudulent activities within the healthcare industry. The agency further stated that these have weakened the efforts to deliver quality and trustworthy healthcare to Kenyans.
In a Monday evening statement, John Marete, acting on behalf of the Director of DCI, confirmed the formation of a multi-agency team. He added that the task force would peruse the files and move fast to guarantee accountability. “A multi-agency team has been established under the chairmanship of the DCI with an aim to review the files expeditiously,” said Marete.
The agency clearly stated that no one would be exempt. Political standing, wealth, or social class will not exempt anyone found guilty of fraud. The DCI assured to conduct the investigations with fairness and transparency.
Marete also added that the DCI is working closely with other security organs. Apart from prosecuting the suspects, they seek to recover resources and assets acquired through fraud schemes. He noted that the crackdown is a great step towards protecting public funds meant for healthcare.
The DCI further promised Kenyans that it will release regular updates on the status of the investigations. In the meantime, the agency asked people to remain vigilant. It asked the citizens to report any cases of fraud or corruption within the healthcare sector.
This comes at a time when the abuse of healthcare funds has been a concern that is on the rise. The majority of Kenyans attend public facilities for their medical care, and cases of fraud risk their access to essential services. Getting hold of carrying out these investigations will help instill trust in the system and guarantee that funds meant for healthcare find their way to citizens as intended.
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