Let's work together to secure the health of every citizen

NHIF building, Nairobi. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

As we cross over to the New Year 2023, it is important to celebrate key milestones in the health sector.

Hoping that the New Year brings joy and happiness to every Kenyan, it is a golden chance to reflect on past challenges, with a view to turning them into opportunities.

The National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) takes great pride in the partnership enjoyed over the past year and commits to work harder to secure the health and well-being of Kenyans. With your support, we aim to hit new milestones in providing accessible, affordable, sustainable, equitable, and quality health insurance to meet your every need.

This is why we encourage every Kenyan to consistently pay their monthly contributions on time to access NHIF services. An active health insurance cover protects you and your family against unforeseen health emergencies and existing conditions.

As the board, we guarantee seamless delivery of quality services while safeguarding your money and health. We are fully aware that effective health systems are a key ingredient of growth and prosperity. A nation that cares about social and economic prosperity must care about the health of its population.

No doubt, a national healthcare system that is qualitative, timely and accessible is the silver bullet towards ensuring a productive workforce. But as with the case of most developing countries, challenges to the provision of quality affordable healthcare are enormous. But with the right interventions, it's possible to scale the heights towards the realization of better health for all.

It is important to leverage on the government's support for crucial health coverage reforms primed to lead the transformation of the country's healthcare. This would lead to the realisation of a society where no one is left behind.

The world over, the medical sector faces immense pressure. Stakeholders must unite and pull in the same direction knowing that the social and economic vibrancy of the nation depends by and large on the health of its population. Citizens are claiming their right to efficient medical services. Every effort must be made to spread the gains in the New Year. Indeed, we can do it.

Kenyans have a right to high-quality life made possible through quality health care provision. This is only tenable if our health practices and ethical and efficient. Every health stakeholder and the public should work towards improved medical services. As a key insurer, we will continue to explore various reforms besides collaborative opportunities with relevant agencies locally and across the region to ensure the public have access to quality healthcare. We believe effective medical insurance holds the key to a healthier Kenya.

- Eng Kamau is the chairman of the NHIF Board and Management