Nyong'o revives free health plan

The contentious plan to introduce universal medical cover for Kenyans is back.

Medical Services Minister Anyang’ Nyong’o said he had tabled a Cabinet memo pushing for a National Social Health Scheme.

Prof Nyong’o was optimistic it would be adopted by the Cabinet and endorsed by Parliament.

The scheme seeks to provide free medical care for all by increasing statutory deductions for working Kenyans and employers to provide for the poor.

The proposal was shot down a few years ago, following protests by employers and workers that they could not afford more cuts on their reduced earnings.

“We intend to create a robust infrastructure network countrywide, improve the quality of health service delivery to the highest standards, provide access to those excluded from healthcare and promote partnership with private sector,” he said during the opening of Mediheal Group of Hospitals in Nakuru at the weekend.

Prof Nyong’o said most pregnant women do not have access to medical services.