Confusion hits clinics on free maternity care

Confusion has engulfed public hospitals following a directive by President Uhuru Kenyatta that mothers who deliver in the health centres be provided with free maternity services.

Director of Medical Services Francis Kimani on Monday said the ministry was consulting with other stakeholders on how to implement the directive.

“You are stepping into an area that cannot be addressed now...What I can tell you is that the Ministry of Health is still holding consultations with other stakeholders,” Dr Kimani said on phone.

Earlier, sources said the ministry had met officials from the Treasury and Office of President on the directive. (Editorial: ‘Free’ maternity care may prove too costly)

Meanwhile, public hospitals in Nyanza and Western are reeling under pressure of increased demand for free maternity service President Uhuru Kenyatta promised during his inauguration.

At Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital and Kisumu District Hospital, the number of women seeking services has almost doubled.

Provincial director of Medical Services Ojwang Lusi said on Monday that although the directive was yet to be implemented, it was upon health managers to make it a reality.

A spot check at Kisii Level Five Hospital, Gucha, and Nyamache Level Four hospitals showed most women were reluctant to pay for maternity services.

Kisii Level Five Hospital medical superintendent Geoffrey Otomu told the Nation by phone they had not received a circular from the ministry waiving the fees.

In Kakamega, nurses at the provincial hospital are grappling with high demand for free maternity care while public hospitals in Migori are still charging for the service.

In Siaya, expectant mothers’ request for free services in public hospitals have so far been turned down.

Reported by Mike Mwaniki, Lilian Ochieng’, Jackline Moraa, Benson Amadala, Elisha Otieno and Godfrey Ombogo