Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has issued a stern warning to the management of Level 2, Level 3, and sub-county hospitals against charging patients for outpatient services.
Speaking in Kirinyaga Central on Sunday, Muthoni emphasized that President William Ruto has directed that all outpatient services at these facilities be offered free of charge, in line with the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) plan funded by the national government.
She stressed that the Ministry of Health will closely monitor compliance, warning that any health professionals who defy the directive risk having their licenses revoked.
Muthoni also clarified that Kenyans registered under the Social Health Insurance (SHI) scheme should not be charged for outpatient care at Levels 1 to 3 health facilities. Charges will only apply if patients are referred to Level 4 or Level 5 hospitals.
She encouraged more Kenyans to register for SHI, noting that the government is implementing major reforms to improve healthcare services across the country.
President Ruto echoed this directive during a separate event on Sunday, ordering all lower-level hospitals, including sub-county facilities, to provide outpatient services free of charge, as payments are covered by the government under UHC.
He also cautioned Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi over reports that some hospitals in the county were still charging patients for services that should be free.
Probe As Decomposed Body Of Man Found In Parked Lorry In Rongo, Migori County
