In a bold move to enhance the quality and accountability of healthcare in Kenya, 875 health facilities have been shut down by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) due to non-compliance. This development coincides with the national launch of the Health Facility Digitalization initiative, a cornerstone reform in the country’s journey toward a fully digitized health system.
As part of the initiative, 1,114 digital devices were distributed across public health facilities in Garissa County to improve efficiency in service delivery, strengthen record-keeping, and heighten accountability mechanisms. With these systems in place, Kenyans can now access their health records from any part of the country through the newly established Health Information Exchange (HIE). The HIE provides a secure and unified platform that captures both patient and provider data, ensuring continuity of care across the health system.
The digitization effort has already yielded substantial results. In addition to the closure of non-compliant facilities, the new system has also led to the elimination of over three million fraudulent National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) records. Moving forward, only facilities that are licensed and accredited will be empanelled under the new Social Health Authority (SHA), signaling a new era of transparency and accountability in the health sector.
The Ministry of Health is also implementing the Comprehensive Integrated Health Information System, which will digitize patient records, prescriptions, and financial transactions at health facilities. This approach is set to transform the healthcare system from the ground up by reducing fraud, improving transparency, and streamlining service delivery.
Addressing residents at the conclusion of a five-day Free Medical Camp, the Health Cabinet Secretary urged the local population to register under SHA and embrace Taifa Care. This program is a pivotal part of Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) strategy, designed to expand access to affordable, quality healthcare for all citizens.
To support the nationwide rollout of digital health services, 367 health workers in Garissa County have already been trained on the new systems, with a goal of reaching 1,700 personnel in the region. Nationally, over 74,000 digital devices will be distributed to public health facilities to ensure parity with private sector standards.
A key element of the transformation is the Digital Health Superhighway, which will allow Kenyans especially youth and families to register, access healthcare services, and track their medical care directly from their mobile phones. This infrastructure aims to ensure inclusivity and ease of access, leaving no one behind in the transition to a smarter, more efficient health system.
