Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha has implored Kenyans to offer prayers for both the government and the judges handling the legal challenge against the Social Health Insurance Act 2023.
Speaking at the burial ceremony of Gladys Wanjiku Muriuki, sister to PS Public Health Mary Muthoni, Nakhumicha expressed regret over the legal hindrance caused by an individual enjoying comprehensive insurance, while countless Kenyans grapple with unaffordable medical expenses. The CS requested a two-week grace period for the case’s resolution to pave the way for the long-awaited reforms envisioned in the act.
The Court of Appeal is expected to rule next Friday on whether to suspend the order halting the act’s implementation, a decision eagerly awaited by both proponents and opponents of the healthcare reforms.
In her address, Nakhumicha emphasized the urgency of implementing the reforms, assuring Kenyans that once the legal hurdles are cleared, the government will promptly initiate the Health Insurance Act.
The proposed changes include provisions where Comprehensive Health Packages (CHPs) and health center visits are entirely covered by the government, eliminating out-of-pocket expenses for citizens.
The case is scheduled for a hearing on February 7.
