Kisii – In Kisii, Kenyans are being encouraged to fully utilize the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) for access to quality health services, mitigating financial challenges in healthcare. During a three-day medical camp in Kisii town, organized by Kitutu Chache South MP Antony Kibagendi, NHIF Kisii Branch Manager Benard Kirui emphasized the importance of health insurance registration.

According to Kenya News Agency, who spoke at the event, some registered NHIF members have yet to declare their dependents, hindering these family members’ access to services at NHIF-accredited facilities.

Kirui also highlighted that some individuals enrolled under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC), a joint initiative of the Ministry of Health and NHIF, are unaware of their coverage. He pointed out instances where people sell property for hospital bills, only to find that their expenses are covered under the UHC Supa Cover. To address this, Kirui urged local chiefs and leaders to acquire lists of residents enrolled in UHC from NHIF offices, enabling more community members to benefit from medical cover.

Additionally, he commended the investment in healthcare in Kisii, noting that the town has become a referral center, subsequently reducing healthcare costs. MP Kibagendi stressed the importance of educating the community on the treatment costs covered by NHIF, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on families, especially those seeking treatment abroad for terminal illnesses. He also called on the media to highlight mental health issues, linking them to the recent increase in severe incidents nationwide.

The medical camp saw participation from various partners, including the National Syndemic and Diseases Control Council, Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kenya Medical Training College Kisii Branch, Bosongo Hospital, Hema Hospital, and Kisii Eye Hospital, among others.