The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) National Chairman, Peterson Wachira, has raised concerns that the cartels accused of undermining the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) are still active, even after the transition to the Social Health Authority (SHA). This statement comes amid ongoing challenges with the new public health scheme, which has been plagued by system failures, patient verification issues, and reimbursement inconsistencies, despite Kenyans contributing 2.75% of their monthly income to the fund.
Wachira’s remarks came shortly after clinical officers began their strike at midnight on Tuesday. One of the main grievances voiced by KUCO members is the exclusion of clinical officers from offering services under the SHA, despite their role as key healthcare providers. The union has also accused the government of breaching a return-to-work agreement made last year, which included promises of promotions, comprehensive medical coverage, and the conversion of short-term contracts into permanent, pensionable terms for clinical officers.
Addressing the ongoing issues, Wachira stated that the cartels once alleged to be operating within the Ministry of Health (MoH) and NHIF were still undermining the system, despite assurances from former Health Ministers Mutahi Kagwe and Susan Nakhumicha that they had been dealt with. Wachira added that while former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration had acknowledged the existence of these cartels, they appear to have persisted under the current regime led by President William Ruto.
In particular, KUCO Secretary-General George Gibore emphasized that the clinical officers would not resume work until their demands, including the unconditional recognition and empanelment of health providers licensed by the Clinical Officers Council, are met. They also want SHA to reinstate pre-authorization rights for clinical officers, including specialists, which had been revoked following the transition to the new system.
Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Deborah Barasa has urged Kenyans to be patient, announcing that the Ministry of Health is reviewing the benefits tariffs and will make changes to the scheme by March 1. However, with cartels still reportedly obstructing the system, many remain skeptical about any substantial improvements in the near future.
As the strike continues, clinical officers remain firm in their position that the issues plaguing the SHA must be addressed before they will return to work, leaving the public health sector in a precarious position.
