Kenya Unveils Health Accounts Report, Vows Better Services
The report launch provides data for benchmarking, accountability, and evidence-based policymaking to aid resource mobilization, service utilization, and fund allocation for better health outcomes.
NAIROBI, Kenya— The Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Harry K. Kimtai, on Thursday officially launched the National Health Accounts Estimates Report for the fiscal years 2019/20 to 2021/22, underscoring the government's dedication to enhancing health services and ensuring equitable healthcare access for all Kenyans, writes Winston Mwale.
In his address, Kimtai stressed that health is a fundamental right enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution, ensuring every citizen the right to the highest attainable standard of health. He reiterated the Ministry of Health's commitment to implementing policies and measures to progressively achieve these rights.
"The Principal Secretary highlighted significant progress made under the Vision 2030 initiative, particularly in improving healthcare quality and accessibility," said a ministry statement. He pointed to achievements like free treatment for HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis patients, contributing to reduced child and maternal mortality rates.
Despite successes, Kimtai acknowledged ongoing challenges like inequitable access to services, inadequate financing, and a shortage of skilled workers.
He emphasized addressing both communicable and non-communicable diseases burdening the system.
Kimtai discussed the government's Bottom Up Transformation Agenda for achieving universal health coverage, initiating reforms focused on human resources, health products and technologies, integrated information systems, and healthcare financing.
The report launch provides data for benchmarking, accountability, and evidence-based policymaking to aid resource mobilization, service utilization, and fund allocation for better health outcomes.
"Kimtai expressed gratitude to development partners, including WHO, USAID, and JICA, for their support in the estimation process. He urged involved teams to ensure accurate, credible data for effective planning," the statement added.