Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa visited Kapsabet County Referral Hospital to evaluate the impact of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and Taifa Care programs on service delivery.
During her visit, she engaged with healthcare workers and patients, noting the programs’ role in improving access to affordable and efficient healthcare. She commended the hospital’s progress and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to advancing Universal Health Coverage.
Dr. Barasa emphasized the need for continued collaboration between national and county governments to strengthen healthcare systems and ensure quality care for all citizens. She highlighted that SHA and Taifa Care have been instrumental in reducing financial barriers to healthcare, enabling more people to seek medical attention without the burden of high costs.
The introduction of these programs has led to a notable increase in the number of patients accessing healthcare services. Hospital administrators reported improvements in service efficiency, shorter wait times, and better resource allocation. Healthcare workers shared their experiences, emphasizing how streamlined processes have enhanced their ability to provide timely and quality care.
Patients who interacted with the CS expressed their appreciation for the positive changes in the healthcare system. Many shared personal stories of how SHA and Taifa Care had enabled them to access medical services they previously could not afford. The programs have been particularly beneficial for vulnerable populations, including low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with chronic conditions who require regular medical attention.
Dr. Barasa’s visit also included discussions on the need for continuous monitoring and evaluation of these healthcare initiatives. She emphasized the importance of gathering data and feedback from both medical professionals and patients to identify areas for improvement. The Ministry of Health aims to use this information to refine the programs and ensure they remain responsive to the evolving healthcare needs of the population.
The CS also paid a courtesy call on Nandi County Governor, H.E. Hon. Stephen Kipyego Sang. Their discussions centered on strengthening healthcare collaboration, enhancing service delivery, and advancing Universal Health Coverage for the people of Nandi. They acknowledged the progress made in healthcare accessibility and pledged to continue working together to build a more robust health system.
Governor Sang highlighted the county’s commitment to healthcare improvements, noting various infrastructure projects and workforce expansion efforts aimed at supporting the SHA and Taifa Care programs. He stressed the importance of adequate funding and resource allocation to sustain and expand these initiatives.
As part of her visit, Dr. Barasa toured different hospital departments, assessing the implementation of digital health systems, pharmaceutical supply chains, and emergency response services. She was particularly impressed by the integration of technology in patient records management, which has reduced paperwork and enhanced efficiency in service delivery.
Dr. Barasa reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to addressing challenges such as staff shortages, medical supply gaps, and healthcare infrastructure improvements. She assured both the hospital management and county officials that the national government remains committed to supporting county-level healthcare advancements through policy guidance, funding, and technical expertise.
The visit underscored the significance of a well-coordinated approach between different levels of government and healthcare stakeholders. With the continued implementation and expansion of SHA and Taifa Care, the country moves closer to achieving its goal of Universal Health Coverage, ensuring every citizen can access quality healthcare without financial hardship.
