Hospitals Warned Against Charging Outpatients
she emphasized that Kenyans who are enrolled under the Social Health Insurance (SHI) should not be required to pay any money for outpatient services
The health workers who disregard this directive will face serious consequences. Muthoni said their licenses will be revoked. Photo/ Citizen Digital
By Juliet Jerotich
Principal Secretary for Public Health Mary Muthoni issued a stern warning to level 2, level 3, and sub-county hospitals. They are never supposed to charge patients who wish to receive outpatient medical services in the hospitals, she stated.
Muthoni indicated the directive was issued by President William Ruto directly. She urged hospital management to stick to it and not reject patients. She added that the Ministry of Health will monitor for compliance closely so Kenyans can access outpatient services free of charge.
The health workers who disregard this directive will face serious consequences. Muthoni said their licenses will be revoked.
Addressing people in Kirinyaga Central on Sunday, she emphasized that Kenyans who are enrolled under the Social Health Insurance (SHI) should not be required to pay any money for outpatient services in such hospitals. She clarified that only charges will be made if patients are referred to level 4 or level 5 hospitals.
The PS invited more Kenyans to become part of SHI. She said that this will give them quality and affordable health care. She went on to say that the government is making extensive reforms in a bid to rationalize the health sector and avail services to all.
President Ruto also spoke on the matter on Sunday. He instructed all level 1 to level 3 hospitals, as well as sub-county health centres, to treat outpatients for free. He assured that the cost would be covered by the national government using the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme.
The President issued a strong warning to Governor Kimani Wamatangi of Kiambu. He accused some of the hospitals in the county of charging outpatients despite having already been given UHC funds by the national government.
The directive by Ruto aims at alleviating the financial strain on ordinary Kenyans while seeking medical care. He promised that funds have been provided to ensure the services remain free as outlined.
The Ministry of Health has pledged to step up checks in health facilities. Muthoni urged Kenyans to report cases where hospitals bill for outpatient services covered by UHC. She further stated that the government wants to end barriers to health and ensure that no patient is turned away from receiving treatment because they lack money.
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