CS Nakhumicha unveils new healthcare initiatives at SHA forum

Health Cabinet Secretary Nakhumicha Wafula has reiterated the government’s commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and quality through the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Speaking at a media engagement forum organized by SHA in partnership with the Ministry of Health, she introduced a series of new healthcare initiatives aimed at enhancing standards and accessibility.

These initiatives include a wide range of services such as assistive devices, dental health care, accident and emergency services, end-of-life care, specialized pharmacy benefits, mental wellness support, essential diagnostics, and disease screening.

The CS underscored SHA’s dedication to upholding every Kenyan’s constitutional right to high-quality healthcare, supported by legislative acts like the Social Health Insurance Act, Facility Improvement Financing Act, Primary Healthcare Act, and Digital Health Act.

She noted that SHA’s implementation of digital technologies will ensure efficient service delivery and accurate patient identification.

The government has allocated significant funding to support these initiatives, including Ksh 53 billion for public financing and an additional Ksh 8 billion and Ksh 148 billion for social health insurance, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing healthcare services across Kenya.

Among those present at the event were Harry Kimtai, Principal Secretary for Medical Services; Dr Patrick Amoth, Acting Director General of Health; Dr Timothy Olweny, Chair of SHA; Kap-Kirwok R. Jason, Chair of the Transition Authority; and ElijahWachira, Acting CEO of SHA, among other distinguished guests.