A new SHA provision aims to exclude 26,000 clinical officers in Kenya. They are from pre-authorizing key medical procedures, which raises concerns among healthcare professionals.
Clinical officers argue the rule will disrupt services in over 1,000 health facilities they manage, especially in underserved areas, and have petitioned President William Ruto for intervention.
The officers, through their unions, also petitioned Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa and SHA leadership, claiming the policy is discriminatory. They argue that the new health plan, which emphasizes referrals for treatment, could harm patients.
The petition highlights the exclusion of clinical officers’ registered facilities from SHA empanelment. These facilities, once accredited under the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), serve marginalized communities. Clinical officers assert they’ve been denied pre-authorization rights for specialized procedures, despite their crucial role in Kenya’s healthcare system.
Kenya Union of Clinical Officers Chairman Peterson Wachira criticized the SHA system for requiring clinical officers to use medical officers’ licenses for authorizations. He emphasized that clinical officers are essential in managing Level 2 and Level 3 facilities, which often lack doctors.
Wachira also opposed the demand for clinical officers to register their facilities with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), arguing it imposes unnecessary financial burdens. He warned this policy could delay or deny critical care, further straining Kenya’s healthcare system.
Medical Services PS Harry Kimtai denied discrimination claims, explaining the SHA Act mandates KMPDC to license healthcare facilities. Despite this, clinical officers remain committed to challenging the policy.
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