Nairobi Diocese Archbishop Philip Anyolo has warned that over 1,600 private faith-based hospitals risk shutting down if the government does not settle the ballooning debt owed by the defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
At the inauguration of the Mary Help of the Sick Mission Hospital in Thika on Tuesday, Anyolo emphasized the urgent need for government action, warning that without financial support, faith-based hospitals, which constitute the majority of healthcare facilities in Kenya, could face closure, putting countless Kenyans at risk.
''It is very obvious, if they don't pay, there will be a shutdown and you know that the church, as it is, has a bigger percentage of medical services to help the government and to help the people of Kenya in matters of health," Anyolo warned.
According to Anyolo, the non-payment of pending bills cripples the hospitals and they’re no longer able to continue operating normally.
The Archbishop emphasised the importance of addressing their grievances, highlighting that financial support is essential to enhance the quality of their services and strengthen their ability to continue providing medical care to Kenyans in need.
Faith-based hospitals in Kenya are owed significant amounts by the government through the NHIF. The debt reportedly exceeds KSh 250 million, with some claims dating back several years.
Additionally, the transition to the Social Health Authority (SHA) introduced further delays, with SHA claims amounting to KSh 15 billion. This financial strain has left many faith-based hospitals struggling to maintain operations and provide essential healthcare services.
Faith-based organisations play a significant role in Kenya's healthcare system, accounting for over 40 per cent of healthcare services nationwide, mostly located in rural areas, helping the poor and vulnerable in society.
This warning follows a promise made by President William Ruto three weeks ago to settle all claims from public, private, and faith-based hospitals.
On March 5, President Ruto promised that the government was going to settle NHIF debts and directed the Cabinet Secretary to gazette the verification committee within a week.
Despite the assurance, faith-based hospitals have yet to receive any payments, leaving them unable to continue their operations.
If they shut down, it is going to be another challenge to the already ailing health sector in the country.
