Private hospitals in Kenya could face the revocation of their licenses if they fail to adhere to the Social Health Authority (SHA) regulations concerning outpatient services.
Health Principal Secretary (PS) Harry Kimtai issued this warning on Monday, March 17, after expressing concern over the reluctance of private healthcare providers to offer outpatient services under the new healthcare model.
Speaking at the launch of digitization devices in Embu County, Kimtai criticized private hospitals for turning away patients seeking outpatient care.
“From the data we’ve gathered, it is clear that many private healthcare facilities are not participating in outpatient services, which are crucial to primary healthcare funding,” Kimtai stated.
He warned that hospitals not complying with SHA regulations could face severe repercussions, including denial of registration and possible closure.
The PS explained that the Ministry of Health had provided private hospitals with ample data to help them understand the new model and address any reluctance.
“We have provided private hospitals with statistics to help them understand the new model.
We will investigate further to determine whether their reluctance is due to a lack of understanding,” Kimtai said.
He speculated that private hospitals may be hesitant to comply because many patients prefer public healthcare facilities under the Taifa Care scheme.
However, Kimtai stressed that the SHA was built on solid evidence and supported by quarterly financial data that demonstrates its sustainability.
“If private hospitals continue to resist and fail to provide services to Kenyans, they may face closure as they will also be subject to license renewals,” Kimtai warned.
The government and private hospitals have been at odds over the new healthcare model for some time.
In February, the Rural and Urban Private Hospitals Association (RUPHA) suspended services under the SHA due to ongoing concerns, including unpaid debts dating back to 2017.
The suspension was later lifted following intervention from President William Ruto.
One of the primary issues raised by private hospitals is the financial strain caused by outstanding payments, which have led to bank defaults and shortages of essential medicines.
Under the SHA framework, outpatient services are capped at KSh2,000 per visit, with beneficiaries limited to four visits per year at Level 2, 3, and 4 primary healthcare facilities.
Private hospitals have expressed concerns that this model is unsustainable.
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