The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr Deborah M. Barasa, has underscored the critical role of Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs) in healthcare delivery across Kenya.
Speaking at the opening of a consultative meeting in Mombasa, Dr. Barasa emphasized the government’s commitment to working closely with FBOs to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
She highlighted new healthcare interventions, including a fully funded primary healthcare system, and praised FBOs’ dedication to community health.
The meeting also aimed to solidify collaboration between the government and FBOs to expand access to quality healthcare for all Kenyans.
Dr. Barasa encouraged further collaboration between FBOs and the government, particularly in the ongoing registration of Kenyans into the SHA system, which aims to ensure equitable access to quality healthcare.
Which health services are available under SHA?
Meanwhile, the CS encouraged Kenyans to continue visiting health facilities for necessary care, assuring the public that services are now available under the newly established Social Health Authority (SHA), which replaces the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
During her tour of Mombasa County on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, Dr. Barasa assessed the progress of the SHA’s rollout by visiting several health facilities. She praised the collaboration between the county and the SHA, highlighting the support from Mombasa staff that has facilitated a smooth transition of services, particularly in providing access to critical treatments such as dialysis and cancer care.
“I urge health facilities to continue serving patients without hesitation,” Dr Barasa stated, reassuring healthcare providers that all claims for services will be honoured by the SHA.
Her tour included a visit to the historic Mombasa Hospital, established 130 years ago, where she observed patients receiving care in the renal and oncology units.
She also visited the Mombasa County Teaching and Referral Hospital to further evaluate the rollout of services.
