President William Ruto has issued a stern warning to health facilities that continue to demand payment from patients covered under the Social Health Authority (SHA) program, terming them as conmen.
Speaking during a public event, the Head of State emphasized that no Kenyan under the new SHA health cover should be asked to pay for treatment, as the government has already put in place systems to ensure all registered citizens receive free and quality healthcare.
“Hospitali yoyote inakuitisha pesa ukiwa na SHA, hao ni conmen — waitie polisi,” declared President Ruto.
The President’s remarks come amid growing complaints from Kenyans who claim that some hospitals have been turning them away or demanding cash despite being registered under the new universal health scheme.
Ruto reiterated that the government is determined to eliminate corruption and exploitation in the health sector, warning that stern action will be taken against any medical facility found violating SHA regulations.
He further assured citizens that the government will continue improving access to affordable healthcare, noting that the Social Health Authority is part of his administration’s plan to replace the defunct NHIF with a more transparent and efficient system.
The statement has since sparked reactions online, with many Kenyans welcoming the President’s tough stance, while others urged the government to ensure that hospitals are adequately funded to handle the influx of patients under the new system.
