Kisumu: Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga has urged Kisumu County residents to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) to fully benefit from Taifa Care. Dr. Oluga stated that Parliament has allocated Sh13 billion to the Ministry of Health and Sh8 billion for emergency and critical care services, in addition to member contributions. 'Kenyan taxpayers fund these services, and to access them at no cost, individuals must register with the SHA,' he said.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kisumu County's SHA registration rate is currently at 53 per cent, with only 600,000 individuals enrolled, despite government efforts to boost enrolment. The PS emphasised that the lakeside county was still far from registering over 1.2 million people, as most are not yet enrolled. 'We are appealing to the people of Kisumu to register on the Social Health Authority website and begin contributing to their health insurance. By registering, residents will benefit from relief through reduced medical expenses,' the PS urged.
Dr. Oluga spoke at Kibigori Secondary School in Muhoroni Sub-County, where he visited an ongoing public medical camp, reaffirming the government's commitment to making healthcare accessible and affordable for all Kenyans. Over 2500 residents of Muhoroni Sub-County benefited from the 2-day free medical clinic that offered a comprehensive range of healthcare services at the grassroots, including SHA registration, cancer screening, and treatment for conditions such as snakebites, hypertension, dental issues, arthritis, nutrition, diabetes, orthopaedic issues, and ophthalmology.
PS Oluga further announced the appointment of consultants and specialists to provide treatment for various ailments, including cancer medicines, and the distribution of the remaining medicines to local hospitals.