Ministry of Health, Council of Governors to fast-track delivery of digital health devices

Among the resolutions are the acceleration of digital health system integration in counties, the distribution of essential medical devices, and the absorption of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) staff.
The Ministry of Health and the Council of Governors have agreed to expedite the delivery of digital health devices to public health facilities across all counties.
This decision follows a consultative meeting held on Monday, where both parties outlined key resolutions aimed at enhancing healthcare services nationwide.
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Among the resolutions are the acceleration of digital health system integration in counties, the distribution of essential medical devices, and the absorption of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) staff.
In the meeting, the Ministry of Health and the Council of Governors emphasised the need to fast-track the digitalisation of health systems across the 47 counties.
This includes the distribution of necessary devices and ensuring that the health facilities are equipped with the tools required to enhance healthcare delivery and management.
“The Ministry of Health and the Digital Health Agency will assess and consider Health Information Systems that are currently in use in the counties for inclusion in the Health Information Exchange portal, including Afyake,” the statement read.
Additionally, the Digital Health Agency is expected to fast-track the distribution of digital devices to the remaining counties and provide a detailed rollout plan to guide the implementation.
To further support digital transformation, both parties resolved to form a joint task force with the Ministry of ICT and the Ministry of Energy.
“The Social Health Authority (SHA) should increase allocations to the Emergency Critical Illness Fund to enhance service delivery, particularly for chronic illness cases,” read a joint statement by the Ministry of Health and the Council of Governors.
“There is need for additional funding to support the training and capacity building of level 2 to 5 health facility in-charges on SHA registration, optimisation, and its products,” read a joint statement by the Ministry of Health and the Council of Governors.
Staffing under the UHC program was also a major point of discussion. The Council of Governors committed to conducting a headcount of UHC staff across the counties to improve accountability.
Meanwhile, the national government pledged to transfer funds to counties for UHC staff salaries based on the approved salary scales set by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
Additionally, the resolution addresses staffing concerns, particularly with the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program.
Both the Ministry of Health and the Council of Governors are hopeful that these decisions will enhance the overall healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that all Kenyans have better access to medical services.
The Ministry and the Council of Governors have also agreed to collaborate with the Ministry of ICT and the Ministry of Energy to address the infrastructure challenges, such as electricity and internet connectivity, that are crucial for the effective digitalization of health facilities across the country.
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