Health CS Deborah Barasa Announces Major Reforms to Improve Healthcare Access in Kenya

The Kenyan healthcare system is undergoing a significant transformation following the latest announcements by Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa. These reforms, aimed at enhancing service delivery under the Social Health Authority (SHA), promise to improve access, transparency, and efficiency in the country’s healthcare sector.

Key Changes Announced

1. New Payment Model for Hospitals
   Effective from March 5, 2025, hospital reimbursements will now be based on the actual number of patients treated rather than their insurance status. This shift is expected to ensure fairer compensation for healthcare providers and encourage better patient care.
2. Public Disclosure of Payments
   In a move towards greater transparency, SHA will start publicly disclosing payments made to healthcare facilities. This initiative aims to foster accountability and ensure that funds are used effectively to benefit patients.
3. Claims Tracking Dashboard Launched
   The SHA has introduced a Claims Tracking Dashboard to speed up the reimbursement process for hospitals. This system will streamline claim submissions, reducing delays and ensuring healthcare providers receive timely payments. Nationwide training programs are already underway to familiarize medical institutions with this new technology.
4. Integration of Hospitals into Health Information Exchange
   By the end of March 2025, 15 high-volume hospitals will be integrated into the Health Information Exchange (HIE) system. This platform will facilitate seamless sharing of patient data, reducing redundancy and enhancing efficiency in treatment and diagnosis.
5. Targeting Vulnerable Families
   The government is finalizing the Means Testing Model, set for completion by March 7, 2025. This system will identify families in need of financial support, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations receive adequate healthcare assistance.

Expanded Healthcare Benefits

As part of the reforms, several critical health benefits have been enhanced:

• ICU and HDU Coverage: Increased from Ksh 4,600 to Ksh 28,000 per patient.
• Oncology Care: Coverage per household has risen from Ksh 400,000 to Ksh 550,000.

These adjustments reflect the government’s commitment to improving access to specialized medical treatments for all Kenyans.

24-Hour Call Center for Healthcare Assistance

To further improve healthcare accessibility, the government is setting up a 24-hour call center. This service will assist Kenyans with healthcare registration, claims tracking, and other medical inquiries, ensuring that citizens can navigate the new healthcare system with ease.

Resolution of SHA Service Suspension

Following negotiations with President William Ruto, private hospitals have agreed to lift their suspension of SHA services. This decision came after the government assured healthcare providers that outstanding debts would be settled, ensuring the continuity of care for patients across the country.

Final Thoughts

The reforms announced by Dr. Deborah Barasa mark a major step toward a more efficient, transparent, and patient-centered healthcare system in Kenya. By embracing technological advancements, increasing financial support, and improving hospital operations, the SHA is set to make quality healthcare more accessible to all Kenyans.

Stay tuned for further updates as these initiatives roll out in the coming weeks.