Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. has reaffirmed the continuity and effectiveness of the Makueni Care Social Health Fund Programme, a flagship healthcare initiative that has been in place since 2016. The Governor’s reassurance came during a recent WhatsApp Question and Answer forum organized by the Mbooni Tibim group, an online community where residents expressed concerns about the program’s current state.
The Makueni Care program, which was designed to provide affordable and accessible healthcare to residents, has become a cornerstone of the county’s efforts toward achieving Universal Healthcare (UHC). Governor Kilonzo Jr. took the opportunity to praise the dedication and tireless efforts of healthcare workers in the county, acknowledging their crucial role in driving the success of the program and the broader UHC goals.
Addressing Public Concerns
The forum was convened by Winnie Mukosi, one of the group’s administrators, after members voiced worries about the effectiveness of the Makueni Care program. Residents were particularly concerned about rumors circulating that the Makueni Care card, which allows residents to access healthcare services at county health facilities, was no longer being accepted.
In response to these concerns, Dr. Paul Musila, the County Executive Committee Member for Healthcare Services, provided a detailed update on the program’s status. He shared a memo dated August 23, which affirmed that Makueni Care is still operational and continues to serve the residents as intended.
Dr. Musila emphasized that the initiative’s primary goal is to enhance access to promotive, preventive, curative, and rehabilitative healthcare services while significantly reducing the high out-of-pocket expenses that residents typically incur. He categorically dismissed the reports that the Makueni Care card was no longer accepted at county health facilities, reassuring the public that the program remains fully functional.
Ongoing Support and Improvements
To further strengthen the program, Dr. Musila directed Chief Officers Dr. Stephene Ndolo and Dr. Harvey Mulei, along with other departmental directors, to continue registering new patients and providing the necessary support to ensure that the program meets its objectives. This directive highlights the county’s commitment to not only maintaining but also expanding the reach of the Makueni Care program.
Dr. Mulei, who has been closely involved in the program’s implementation, added that the healthcare department is actively addressing issues related to the welfare of healthcare workers. He noted that promotions for healthcare workers are ongoing, with the department holding monthly meetings to discuss and resolve any related challenges. This focus on the well-being and professional growth of healthcare workers is seen as a vital component in sustaining the quality of care provided under the Makueni Care program.
Enhancing Emergency Response
In addition to addressing the concerns about Makueni Care, Dr. Ndolo, the Chief Officer for Health Services, announced significant improvements in the county’s emergency response capabilities. He revealed that the county had purchased two new ambulances in the last financial year and has budgeted for another in the current year. This investment is expected to bolster the county’s ability to respond to emergencies swiftly, further supporting the overall objectives of the Makueni Care program.
Looking Forward
The Makueni Care program has been widely regarded as a model for other counties in Kenya, demonstrating how local governments can take proactive steps to ensure that their residents have access to quality healthcare. Governor Kilonzo Jr.’s recent statements and the ongoing efforts by the healthcare department underscore the county’s commitment to sustaining and improving this vital initiative.
As Makueni County continues to work toward achieving Universal Healthcare, the Makueni Care program remains a critical pillar in ensuring that residents receive the care they need without facing financial hardship. The continued support from the county government, healthcare workers, and the community will be essential in maintaining the program’s success and expanding its impact in the years to come.
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