Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale’s first official steps in office have been focused on addressing key challenges facing the healthcare sector, with an emphasis on accountability, financial stability, and digital modernization.
Duale’s announcement on the prompt settlement of Social Health Authority (SHA) claims has been met with optimism from healthcare providers. The CS directed that all SHA claims owed to hospitals be cleared by the 14th of each month, aiming to resolve the financial delays that have caused unrest among healthcare providers.
“Moving forward, SHA will settle hospital claims by the 14th of every month, ensuring financial stability for healthcare providers,” Duale stated, reinforcing his commitment to resolving the sector’s financial challenges.
In addition to addressing funding issues, Duale issued a firm directive against unqualified medical personnel, warning that hospitals employing quack professionals will forfeit their SHA claims. This move is expected to improve healthcare quality and ensure patient safety.
“Facilities that will be found employing quack professionals will not be paid their SHA claims,” Duale emphasized, stressing the importance of maintaining high standards in healthcare delivery.
A significant part of Duale’s strategy involves digital reforms aimed at improving service delivery. A new national health information system has been rolled out to streamline hospital management and enhance efficiency. This will be a vital part of his vision for a more modern, technology-driven healthcare sector.
“In the digital space, a national health information system has been deployed, with hospital management systems rolling out across counties to enhance service delivery,” he said, highlighting the role of technology in advancing healthcare in Kenya.
Duale also revealed changes to the National Equipment Service Program (NESP), shifting the model to a “pay-as-you-use” system. This approach allows counties to access medical equipment without upfront payments, a move designed to reduce financial strain on local governments.
“NESP has restructured medical equipment access, allowing counties to pay based on service use rather than upfront costs,” Duale explained.
In further support of the healthcare sector, Duale noted that the government has allocated Ksh 25.4 billion for timely service delivery and has equipped over 107,000 Community Health Promoters with essential tools and technology.
Moreover, Duale shared updates on the ongoing reforms at the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), including a Ksh 6.5 billion allocation to streamline drug distribution and eliminate inefficiencies.
“The government is also accelerating the digitalisation of all public health facilities, with full implementation expected by October 2025,” Duale concluded, reinforcing his administration’s focus on modernization.
