A recent report by Twaweza Kenya reveals that nearly half of Kenyans refrain from seeking medical care due to financial constraints.
According to the report, 53% of Kenyans have some form of health insurance, while 47% do not.
Among the obstacles cited, one in three Kenyans highlights the high costs of health insurance, while 31% report avoiding health facilities due to financial limitations.
The National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) is the most prevalent form of health insurance, covering 51% of citizens, with an additional 3% having access to employer-provided schemes or private insurance.
These findings stem from a research initiative titled “Shifting to SHIF: Time for a Health Check,” based on data from Sauti za Wananchi, a mobile phone survey involving 3,603 participants nationwide.
Dr. James Ciera, Twaweza Kenya country lead, underscores the importance of understanding citizens’ current experiences with health services, especially as the country transitions to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
Despite NHIF members’ appreciation for its quality and affordability (71% and 34%, respectively), challenges persist, including limited coverage for certain ailments, hospital restrictions, and difficulties accessing services due to late payments.
Additionally, corruption in the healthcare system and the scarcity of medicine in health facilities are major concerns among citizens, with 46% citing the lack of medicine as the biggest challenge.
While 70% of citizens express satisfaction with the availability of healthcare professionals, improvements are needed in other aspects, including transportation time to healthcare facilities and waiting times for medical attention.
Moreover, the report highlights citizens’ awareness of government initiatives, such as the establishment of community health workers, and their understanding of the workers’ roles in delivering health information and services.
Dr. Ciera emphasizes the necessity of health reform, particularly in addressing the needs of the 47% of Kenyans without access to health insurance.
He calls on the government to share information and assure citizens of a smooth transition to SHIF, prioritizing equitable access to healthcare services for all.
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