Private hospitals criticise PS remarks over SHA non-compliance

SHA Offices

The Kenya Association of Private Hospitals (KAPH) has criticised recent remarks by Medical Services PS Harry Kimtai who stated that private hospitals stand to lose their license if they fail to be Social Health Authority compliant.

The PS said that private hospitals should remember they are subject to renewal of licenses.

PS Kimtai said when private hospitals fail to offer services and be SHA compliant, they are working against the constitution.

Kimtai said private hospitals should not blackmail the government by not offering services to Kenyans.

“Why do you protest? Why do you stop service yet you knew well that NHIF had your outstanding bill? Since 2016, we have called for negotiations and engagement to prove that it is true. We were ready to pay, but they should not blackmail the government and Kenyans by stopping to offer services,” the PS said.

“If they continue like this, it is obvious; that they are also subject to renewal of licenses. If they are not compliant and don’t want to offer services to Kenyans according to the laws, then close shop; that is not the right business that you are supposed to do.”

However, in response, KAPH reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda but emphasised the need to address pressing financial challenges faced by private hospitals. 

The association termed such pronouncements as counterproductive, noting that they undermine the spirit of partnership required to achieve UHC and unfairly target facilities that have remained operational despite financial strain.

The association outlined key concerns, asserting that private hospitals cannot sustainably provide services under government health schemes without timely claim settlements.

It stated that many private healthcare providers are grappling with significant unpaid claims owed under the National Health Insurance Fund, with some facilities owed amounts exceeding Sh10 million.

“These funds are critical for the day-to-day operations of hospitals, including procuring medical supplies, paying staff, and ensuring the continued delivery of essential services to Kenyans,” read the statement by KAPH chairperson Dr Eric Musau.

“Failure to honour these obligations puts the entire healthcare system at risk.”

KAPH described demands for continued service without payment as untenable, warning that they could cripple a sector that plays a crucial role in healthcare delivery.

KAPH called for immediate engagement with the Ministry of Health and SHA leadership to resolve outstanding payments and ensure a structured implementation that safeguards both patients and healthcare providers.

“Private healthcare providers are key partners in the healthcare ecosystem. Achieving UHC is a shared goal, but it must be built on mutual respect, fairness, and honouring of commitments,” KAPH stated.

The association reaffirmed its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue but maintained that without financial sustainability, private hospitals would be unable to continue providing essential services under government schemes.