Cabinet Secretary for Health Hon. Aden Duale has warned health facilities against denying patients treatment under the pretext of system downtime, stating that such actions are unacceptable and violate Kenyans’ constitutional right to healthcare.
The CS directed all facilities contracted under the Social Health Authority (SHA) to continue providing services even when technical challenges occur, warning that any facility found turning away patients risks immediate suspension and possible termination of its contract.
Hon. Duale issued the warning while hosting a delegation from the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) led by National Chairperson Omboko Milemba at Afya House, Nairobi, where discussions focused on the Public Officers Medical Cover following the successful transition of 413,577 teachers to SHA.
To strengthen service delivery under the scheme, the CS announced that 425 Senior Officers have been appointed within SHA, with 367 deployed to counties to provide on-the-ground support and assist teachers facing challenges at health facilities.
He further revealed that a dedicated 24-hour focal person has been assigned to handle urgent issues under the Mwalimu Medical Cover, while 47 County Joint Committees have been established to oversee implementation of the Teachers Medical Scheme at the county level.
The committees, chaired by TSC County Directors and comprising SHA managers and union representatives, will meet quarterly to resolve operational issues and improve coordination.
Hon. Duale also announced the activation of a 24-hour toll-free hotline (0800 720 601) and short code (147) to support teachers experiencing emergencies or administrative challenges while accessing care.
In addition, SHA, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and KUPPET will roll out a nationwide education campaign to help teachers understand their benefits, access the patient portal, and navigate the scheme.
The CS emphasized that workers’ interests remain safeguarded within the governance structure of SHA, noting that the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) is represented on the Authority’s Board.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, Director-General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, SHA CEO Dr. Mercy Mwangangi, Digital Health Agency CEO Eng. Anthony Lenayara, KUPPET Secretary-General Akelo Misori, and TSC Acting CEO Eveleen Mitei, alongside senior Ministry of Health officials.
By Anthony Solly
