KNCHR Highlights Challenges In New Health Cover
KNCHR Highlights Challenges In New Health Cover
However, the Kenyan National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has flagged significant challenges, particularly for vulnerable groups, persons with disabilities, and those facing mental health issues.Â
The lobby has noted that the transition has disrupted access to essential healthcare services for many, with vulnerable populations bearing the brunt.
These disruptions include challenges in accessing life-saving treatments such as dialysis, cancer therapies, and maternal healthcare.
Despite Kenya’s commitment to the Abuja Declaration of 2001, which mandates that 15 percent of the national budget be allocated to healthcare, the country currently allocates just 4.5 percent at the national level and 22.1 percent at the county level.
“Healthcare should be accessible to all. The transition must address the gaps affecting persons with disabilities, who often face financial and systemic barriers to care,” KNCHR said.
Cases of underutilized equipment and inadequate service delivery in county hospitals further exceed these issues.
On mental health, the Commission has expressed growing concerns, especially given Kenya’s tough economic times.
Despite the launch of the National Guidelines on Workplace Mental Health Wellness in 2023, mental health services remain underfunded and inaccessible to many.
The KNCHR called for the inauguration of the Mental Health Board, gazetted in June 2022 but yet to become operational.
It also urged counties to establish mental health clinics at Level 2 to Level 5 health facilities.
The report also highlighted the plight of persons with disabilities, noting that Kenya still falls short of the mandated 5 percent employment quota.
The Commission commended legislative progress, such as the Learners with Disabilities Bill 2023, Persons with Disabilities Bill, and Kenya Sign Language Bill 2023, but urged Parliament to expedite their enactment.
Additionally, the KNCHR called for an audit of the elder person and disability fund registration process to improve transparency and access.
On women’s health, the Commission stressed the need to improve access to reproductive healthcare, citing ongoing cases of maternal mortality.
The Commission urged the government to lift reservations on the Maputo Protocol to expand access to reproductive services.
KNCHR concluded by emphasizing the need for a participatory approach in addressing these systemic gaps.
“No Kenyan should be left behind in accessing healthcare. The government must act swiftly to ensure equity and inclusivity in the SHIF transition, protect the rights of persons with disabilities, and prioritize mental health services,” the Commission stated.
KNCHR Highlights Challenges In New Health Cover
