President William Ruto has confirmed that the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) will commence on January 1st of the upcoming year.
He highlighted that public discussions about the regulations surrounding UHC will commence in the coming week.
During the unveiling of a microbiology laboratory in Machakos County, President Ruto urged collaboration between the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) and the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies (MEDS).
This partnership aims to streamline the procurement and distribution of medical supplies across the nation, ultimately reducing their costs.
The laboratory, situated in Syokimau, Machakos County, is the second of its kind in Kenya, and its establishment aligns with the government’s efforts to boost local manufacturing and curb the infiltration of sub-standard medical supplies.
President Ruto emphasized the critical role of such institutions in the healthcare delivery system, especially when combined with KEMSA.
Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha expressed the significance of the collaboration, stating, “This institution is a critical core in the delivery of healthcare in this country.
If we put MEDS and KEMSA together, we get 80% and will help in ensuring we get our supply chain right.”
President Ruto praised MEDS and extended similar instructions to KEMSA, emphasizing the preference for local manufacturers over imports.
President Ruto reiterated his commitment to realizing universal health coverage, asserting that the necessary legal framework was now in place to provide enhanced medical services to all Kenyans.
He directed Health CS Nakhumicha to promptly engage health sector stakeholders to finalize regulations by the end of December.
In a gazette notice published on Wednesday, Health CS Nakhumicha operationalized the Social Health Insurance Act 2023, which the President signed into law on October 19, 2023.
President Ruto emphasized the need for an inclusive and comprehensive conversation involving all stakeholders in the health sector.
He maintained his stance on healthcare contributions, asserting that payments under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) should be proportionate to individuals’ incomes.
The President envisioned government financing those who cannot afford healthcare contributions, ensuring that all Kenyans have access to Universal Health Coverage.
In line with this vision, President Ruto issued a directive for collaboration between KEMSA and MEDS, foreseeing that their combined efforts would account for over 80% of the market share, significantly lowering the prices of medical supplies in the country.
