Why primary health care is at the core of Kenya's Universal Health Coverage

Cabinet Secretary for Health Susan Nakhumicha. [Denis Kibuchi, Standard]

In this season of renewal and aspiration, Kenya stands on the precipice of a remarkable journey - a journey towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

As we gather to celebrate Mashujaa Day on October 20, 2023, our nation is infused with a fresh spirit of hope and resolve. This day is a unifying moment when our entire country not only pays homage to our heroes but also embarks on a journey towards a future where quality healthcare is a reality for all, regardless of their circumstances.

This year marks the initiation of a transformative vision that embodies our government’s unwavering commitment to UHC. This journey is guided by five fundamental pillars: Primary Health Care, Human Resources for Health, Health Financing, Health Commodity Security and Integrated health information systems. These pillars serve as the cornerstone of our Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), upon which we will construct a healthcare system that leaves no one behind.

At the heart of this visionary approach lies Primary Health Care (PHC), the very foundation of accessible and comprehensive healthcare services. It signifies our dedication to ensuring that every Kenyan - whether in an urban area or a remote village - can access high-quality healthcare services when needed most. It places the well-being of our citizens at the forefront of our healthcare system.

Our tireless efforts have already commenced with the establishment of Primary Care Networks (PCNs) across all 47 counties. This strategic initiative aligns seamlessly with our Kenya Primary Health Care Strategic Framework 2019-2024. It marks a shift from merely treating illnesses to actively promoting wellness at the community level. The goal is to bring healthcare closer to homes, creating a web of healthcare support extending from basic community facilities to advanced medical centres.

These PCNs are more than just physical structures they symbolise our commitment to holistic healthcare. They form a dynamic network connecting community dispensaries, health centres and hospitals, all working in concert to ensure that healthcare delivery is seamless and responsive to the unique needs of each individual.

The transformative journey gains strength from the recent launch of community health promotion kits by His Excellency, President William Ruto a tangible manifestation of our unwavering dedication to providing quality and affordable healthcare to all citizens. With Kenya’s population reaching approximately 50 million people across around 10 million households, we are empowering a workforce of 100,000 Community Health Promoters. These individuals have already been equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to serve approximately 100 households each, representing a crucial step towards realising our primary healthcare goals.

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Affordability should never act as an obstacle to healthcare access. Our government maintains a steadfast commitment to making healthcare affordable for all citizens. We are actively designing a more cost-effective insurance model aimed at extending coverage to every corner of our nation. This initiative seeks to shield our citizens from the financial burdens that healthcare can often impose, ensuring that essential medical services remain within reach for everyone.

Recognising that to access high-quality and affordable medical supplies is pivotal to the success of UHC, we are implementing reforms at the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) to enhance access to medicines in our hospitals. alongside a comprehensive costing exercise that encompasses drugs, consultations, laboratory tests, and imaging services, our goal is to reduce the cost of treatment, making medicines more accessible to all Kenyans. Furthermore, we champion local manufacturing of health products and technologies, promoting self-reliance and cost-effectiveness in our healthcare sector.

To streamline healthcare services and enhance accessibility, we are consolidating all medical services onto a single digital platform. This innovative approach empowers Kenyan citizens to access their health records and essential services with ease. By embracing digital solutions such as telemedicine, and electronic health records we are simplifying healthcare delivery and improving the overall patient experience.

Furthermore, a thriving healthcare system hinges upon a well-trained and sufficient healthcare workforce. To this end, we are expanding training opportunities, prioritizing the employment of healthcare workers, and enhancing working conditions to attract and retain skilled healthcare professionals.

As we embark on this transformative journey towards UHC, we acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. Yet, we face them with unwavering determination and the belief in a Kenya where every citizen can access quality healthcare without undue financial burdens. Together, we herald a new era in Kenyan healthcare, one where the health and well-being of all our citizens are safeguarded.

- The author is the Cabinet Secretary for Health