The Ministry of Health has issued a stern warning to managers of health facilities across the country against illegally charging patients for services that are either free or fully covered under the Social Health Insurance (SHA).
The warning comes as the government intensifies reforms aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has raised concern over reports that some rogue health facilities are exploiting patients by demanding cash payments for services that should be offered at no cost or catered for by the national health insurance scheme.
She described the practice as unethical, illegal, and a direct betrayal of public trust.
Speaking during a free medical camp held at Kianwe in Ndia Constituency, Kirinyaga County, PS Muthoni said the ministry has already received credible information indicating that some facilities are engaging in counter-charging, leaving patients confused, vulnerable, and financially burdened at a time when they are most in need of care.
“The ministry has information that some health facilities are charging patients for services that are free or fully covered by SHA. This is unacceptable and immoral. Health facilities must stop taking advantage of sick and innocent patients,” stressed Muthoni.
She emphasised that all public and private health facilities are required by law to display a clear and visible service charter. The charter, she said, must outline all services offered within the facility and clearly indicate whether each service is free, paid for through the Social Health Insurance, or requires out-of-pocket cash payments by patients.
According to the Principal Secretary, displaying such information empowers patients by allowing them to understand their rights and make informed decisions, instead of being treated blindly and later ambushed with unexpected demands for cash.
“This will help patients navigate their care with clarity. No Kenyan should walk into a health facility only to be surprised at the end with a cash demand for services that are supposed to be free,” she added.
Muthoni warned that the ministry will not hesitate to take decisive action against facilities found violating the regulations. She stated that inspection teams will be dispatched to health facilities across the country to ensure compliance, adding that institutions engaging in the vice risk closure and prosecution.
As part of broader health sector reforms, Muthoni said the government, under the leadership of President William Ruto, is rolling out a robust Universal Health Coverage framework through the Social Health Authority.
She said the reforms include strengthening human resource capacity, improving service delivery, and ensuring accountability within the health system.
She further noted that major reforms are underway at the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) to guarantee consistent availability of essential drugs and medical supplies in health facilities. The reforms aim to eliminate frequent drug shortages and restore confidence in the public health supply chain.
“We want to make sure that drugs are available regularly in all hospitals. Reforms at KEMSA are meant to revive efficiency and ensure that facilities are well stocked,” she said.
In addition to service delivery and drug availability, Muthoni said the government is investing heavily in health infrastructure to ensure that all facilities provide quality and dignified care to patients.
Muthoni said that over the past three years, significant progress has been made within the Ministry of Health, ranging from infrastructure development to policy reforms aimed at improving healthcare access for all Kenyans.
The Principal Secretary also encouraged members of the public to speak out whenever they encounter challenges related to the Social Health Insurance scheme or any form of malpractice in health facilities. She assured citizens that the ministry has established accessible channels for lodging complaints, including chiefs’ offices, offices of administrators, county government offices, and direct engagement with the Ministry of Health.
“If you have a challenge with SHA or any health service, please do not hesitate to report. We are present at the grassroots and as a ministry we are ready to listen and act,” she said.
The free medical camp at Kianwe benefited hundreds of residents, underscoring the government’s commitment to preventive healthcare and community-based interventions as Kenya advances towards equitable and affordable healthcare for all.
By David Wandeto
