Njuki: It’s Now Free Healthcare Services In Tharaka Nithi Hospitals Under SHA, No Topping Up
Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki addressing media in Chuka town over Social Health Authority. Photo/Alex Njeru
By Alex Njeru
Worth Noting:
- “We are providing free outpatient and inpatient services for SHA registrants at Magutuni Level Four Hospital, Marimanti Level Four Hospital, and Chuka Level Five Hospital, which are the biggest health facilities in the county,” said Governor Njuki.
- The registered SHA members who have paid their premiums are entitled to free healthcare services at these hospitals, those who have not yet registered will be required to pay for their treatment out-of-pocket.
- The Governor called on all residents, especially those who have not yet registered, to join the program, noting that registration is easy and offers significant health benefits.
Tharaka Nithi County residents who are registered with the Social Health Authority (SHA) will now be able to access free outpatient medical care at local dispensaries and health centres even before making their monthly premium payments.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve healthcare access in the county and reduce the financial barriers that prevent many residents from seeking treatment.
Governor Muthomi Njuki, who is also the Chairperson of the Council of Governors Health Committee, made the announcement after a visit to Chuka County Referral Hospital.
He emphasized that SHA is designed to provide comprehensive healthcare services for all illnesses, urging residents to register and take full advantage of the program.
“We are providing free outpatient and inpatient services for SHA registrants at Magutuni Level Four Hospital, Marimanti Level Four Hospital, and Chuka Level Five Hospital, which are the biggest health facilities in the county,” said Governor Njuki.
The registered SHA members who have paid their premiums are entitled to free healthcare services at these hospitals, those who have not yet registered will be required to pay for their treatment out-of-pocket.
The Governor called on all residents, especially those who have not yet registered, to join the program, noting that registration is easy and offers significant health benefits.
As of now, 123,486 residents in Tharaka Nithi have registered with SHA, which represents 27 percent of the county’s target population of 463,000. The county ranks 13th out of the 47 counties in Kenya in terms of SHA registration.
Governor Njuki highlighted that health facilities across the county are actively enrolling new members, with Community Health Promoters going door-to-door to ensure wider registration.
“There has been a worrying increase in fundraising efforts for hospital bills as many residents remain unregistered with SHA,” the Governor noted. “I am urging everyone to register, as it is far more affordable to pay the monthly premiums than to face the financial burden of paying out-of-pocket for medical services.”
Governor Njuki also raised concerns about the rising number of deaths linked to people seeking alternative treatments, such as witchcraft or prayers, instead of proper medical care.
He emphasized that the availability of SHA-covered health services could save lives by offering timely and professional medical interventions.
In addition, Governor Njuki revealed that the county government has fully transitioned to a cashless payment system at all public health facilities. He urged residents to report any county official demanding cash for services by either contacting facility management or calling the county’s free toll number, 1513.
“I want to assure residents that no one should be asked for cash for services. If you encounter such a situation, please report it immediately,” he added.
With this move, the county hopes to improve health outcomes and ensure that all residents, regardless of their financial status, can access quality healthcare.
The devolved government is working hard to increase SHA registration in the coming months, aiming to reach more of the population and reduce the financial strain on families facing medical emergencies.
Residents of Tharaka Nithi County are encouraged to take advantage of this initiative, ensuring they and their families are protected from the high costs of healthcare.
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