Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has directed management of level 2, level 3, and sub-county hospitals to immediately stop charging patients for outpatient services.
Speaking in Kirinyaga Central on Sunday, 10 August 2025, Muthoni said the directive follows an order from President William Ruto aimed at ensuring all Kenyans access to outpatient carefree of charge in these facilities.
Muthoni stated that the Ministry of Health will closely monitor compliance and warned that any hospital or health professional found violating the directive will face severe consequences, including possible cancellation of their practicing licenses.
She said that no patient registered under the Social Health Insurance (SHI) scheme should be required to pay for outpatient services at these hospitals.
The Principal Secretary explained that payments will only apply if a patient is referred to higher-level health facilities such as level 4 or level 5 hospitals.
This arrangement is part of the government’s broader Universal Health Coverage (UHC) initiative designed to reduce the cost burden on patients and improve healthcare accessibility.
Muthoni also encouraged more Kenyans to register for the Social Health Insurance program, noting that it is key to accessing better healthcare services across the country.
She highlighted that the government is implementing reforms to streamline service delivery in the health sector to benefit all citizens.
This directive from the Ministry of Health aligns with President William Ruto’s earlier statement on Sunday, where he reiterated that outpatient services at all level 1 to level 3 hospitals, including sub-county facilities, must be provided free of charge.
The President specifically cautioned Kiambu County Governor Kimani Wamatangi over reports that some hospitals were still charging patients despite government payments through the UHC program.
The move reflects the government’s commitment to enhance healthcare affordability and ensure that every Kenyan has access to essential medical services without financial barriers.
