The Ministry of Health and counties have finalised key agreements aimed at advancing the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
This follows a consultative meeting between the Council of Governors (CoG) and Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha on Friday.
During the meeting, key agreements were reached to bolster the implementation of UHC and address longstanding financial challenges.
According to CoG chairperson Anne Waiguru, an agreement was reached to prioritise the settlement of debts owed to counties by defunct the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
This move aims to stabilise healthcare funding at the county level and ensure continuity of essential health services.
"The ministry shall ensure that Sh8 billion owed to counties by the defunct NHIF will be paid," Waiguru said.
They further agreed that the ministry will ensure the transfer of funds allocated to Community Health Programmes (CHPs) from County Governments' Special Purpose Accounts, starting from the Financial Year 2024/25.
They also agreed that the ministry shall support counties in the rollout of a comprehensive integrated health information system for facilitation of health service delivery.
This will be done through the provision of requisite infrastructure for electricity and internet connectivity.
They also agreed that the ministry shall cover all costs pertaining to the rollout and maintenance of the Integrated Health Information system.
In addition, they also agree that the ministry in collaboration with counties shall conduct a public campaign on the rollout of registration of Kenyans to the Social Health Authority (SHA).
It was also agreed that the two levels of government shall have continuous engagement to ensure effective implementation of UHC.