Ruto sets Kenya’s bold path towards Universal Health Coverage
President William Ruto has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC), a cornerstone of his administration’s manifesto.
This ambitious programme is designed to provide free quality health services, including for critical illnesses such as cancer, to every Kenyan.
In a post shared on his official Facebook page on June 27, President Ruto detailed the framework supporting UHC, highlighting the establishment of three specialized funds aimed at covering the diverse healthcare needs of the population.
These funds are the Primary Health Care Fund, the Social Health Insurance Fund, and the Emergency Chronic and Critical Illness Fund.
“The government has set up three funds to meet the cost of Universal Health Coverage. These are the Primary Health Care Fund, Social Health Insurance Fund and Emergency Chronic and Critical Illness Fund,” President Ruto stated.
The Three Pillars
- Primary Health Care Fund This fund is dedicated to ensuring that basic health services are available to all Kenyans. By focusing on preventive and primary healthcare, the government aims to reduce the incidence of diseases and promote overall wellness in the population. The Primary Health Care Fund will cover routine check-ups, immunizations, maternal and child health services, and management of common illnesses.
- Social Health Insurance Fund To provide a safety net for all citizens, the Social Health Insurance Fund is designed to offer comprehensive health insurance. This fund will cover a broad range of medical services, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent Kenyans from seeking necessary medical care. Contributions to this fund will be structured in a way that is affordable for all, with special provisions for low-income households.
- Emergency Chronic and Critical Illness Fund Recognizing the severe impact of chronic and critical illnesses such as cancer, the Emergency Chronic and Critical Illness Fund is specifically allocated to cover the high costs associated with the treatment of such conditions. This fund aims to alleviate the financial burden on families and ensure timely access to life-saving treatments and interventions.
Government’s Commitment
President Ruto’s announcement followed a detailed briefing from the Ministry of Health officials, led by Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha and Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni.
The briefing outlined the strategic plans for rolling out UHC, including the establishment of healthcare infrastructure, training of medical personnel, and the implementation of robust health information systems.
The President expressed confidence in the Ministry of Health’s preparedness and emphasized the critical importance of UHC in achieving social and economic development.
“Universal Health Coverage is a key promise in our manifesto. The programme aims at ensuring that all Kenyans access free quality health services, including for critical illnesses such as cancer,” he reiterated.
Roadmap to Implementation
The rollout of UHC will involve several phases, starting with pilot programmes in selected counties to identify potential challenges and areas for improvement. These pilot projects will be closely monitored, and the insights gained will inform the nationwide implementation strategy.
Moreover, the government plans to collaborate with various stakeholders, including international health organizations, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector, to leverage additional resources and expertise.
Public Response and Future Prospects
The announcement has been met with optimism from various quarters, with many Kenyans expressing hope that UHC will significantly improve access to healthcare, reduce medical expenses, and enhance the overall quality of life.
Health experts have lauded the government’s comprehensive approach, noting that the establishment of the three funds addresses the multifaceted nature of healthcare needs. However, they also emphasize the importance of effective management and transparent use of resources to ensure the success of the UHC initiative.
As Kenya embarks on this transformative journey towards Universal Health Coverage, the eyes of the nation—and indeed the world—will be watching closely. With unwavering political will and collaborative efforts, UHC has the potential to become a reality, bringing Kenya closer to achieving health for all.
