The Social Health Authority (SHA) is set to introduce free ambulance services across Kenya, with President William Ruto expected to launch the initiative by the end of September. This service aims to provide crucial emergency care access to all Kenyans, regardless of their location.

• The SHA will cover the ambulance costs, typically around Ksh4,500, and hospital expenses for the first 24 hours.
• CEO Mercy Mwangangi stated a dedicated telephone number will be rolled out for easy access to these services.
• The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has also directed all ambulance and emergency care providers to register, ensuring regulated standards for service delivery.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced that over 26 million Kenyans have registered for the SHA medical cover, with the government targeting 30 million by December and full coverage by 2027. He encouraged further enrollment, emphasizing that 1.5 million Kenyans will receive subsidized services.

• Over 26 million Kenyans are currently registered for SHA cover.
• The government aims for 30 million registrations by December and 55 million by 2027.
• 1.5 million Kenyans will access SHA services without contributions due to their economic status.
• 242,000 residents in Laikipia County have registered against a target of 591,000.
• The government is also undertaking various development projects in Laikipia County, including 12 modern markets, affordable housing, and expanding electricity connections with an allocation of Sh720 million.
• Kindiki highlighted improved security in Laikipia, attributing it to increased police presence and special units.

Medical Services Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga has revealed that Kenya's new Social Health Authority (SHA) is grappling with widespread fraud, less than a year after it began processing claims. He admitted that unscrupulous hospitals, some linked to influential figures, have received millions of shillings for questionable services, causing public outrage.

• Between 28 to 35 percent of medical claims in Kenya are estimated to be fraudulent.
• The Ministry of Health has shut down 728 health facilities and downgraded 301 others in response to the fraud.
• The PS highlighted the ministry's hotline, receiving around 3,000 calls daily, as a crucial tool in identifying fraudulent claims and poor service.