Medical Services Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai warned that private hospitals in Kenya run the risk of being shut down over failure to deny health services to citizens.

The caution follows the ongoing dispute between private hospitals and the Ministry of Health over unpaid claims by the Social Health Authority (SHA). The government maintained that there would be heavy repercussions for hospitals going against their mandates.

“Private health facilities that continue to turn away patients could find themselves shut down and their licences revoked,” Mr Kimtai said.

Private hospitals have continued to raise their concerns about the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) which replaced the now-defunct NHIF.

Attending an event in Embu where the Taifa Care health program was unveiled, the PS criticized health facilities for their involvement in deceptive practices, by refusing to offer outpatient clinics thus pressuring the government into settling unpaid medical claims.

“We will not succumb to pressure. Private hospitals that have claims exceeding Sh10 million must provide verifiable supporting records for scrutiny. If they fail to comply, we will have no choice but to take serious action, including suspending their operations,” said Mr. Kimtai.

The PS stated the Ministry is aware of the exploitation practices for public health funds and engaging in dishonest practices. He reassured the public of the government’s effort to maintain a fair and transparent system, vowing to address the issue and ensure accountability.

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“Why are these hospitals only now demanding payment for claims dating back to 2016? Why didn’t they pursue these claims earlier?” he asked.

Speaking during the rally, Moses Kuria said Kenyans covered under SHA are entitled to free primary healthcare at any government facility.

He disclosed that in Embu County, the government has set aside Sh32 million for outpatient services. This was to cater to 24,000 people within the county.

Of this amount, Sh24 million is allocated to public hospitals, while Sh8 million is directed to private hospitals participating in the program. However, this funding comes with specific conditions, including the requirement for hospitals to provide outpatient services.