Health CS nominee Deborah Mlongo explains plan to curb NHIF theft

By , August 1, 2024

Health Cabinet Secretary nominee Deborah Mlongo Barasa has detailed an elaborate plan to end the issue of theft, collusion and scandals within the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

Appearing before the Committee on Appointments on Thursday, August 1, 2024, Mlongo proposed a situational analysis framework to address the issues bedevilling NHIF.

Through situational analysis, Mlongo indicated that different players in the Ministry of Health and NHIF officials will review the challenges, identify the loopholes used to infiltrate the system and then propose policy interventions.

“We need to conduct a situational analysis to understand the challenges and from there come up with interventions. I have seen the strength of having processes and procedures,” Mlongo stated.

Mlongo was responding to a question raised by the Leader of the Majority Kimani Ichung’wah who argued that some hospitals were colluding with NHIF to gain millions from NHIF beneficiaries.

Ichung’wah added that some hospitals surcharge patients admitted on NHIF cover creating an imbalance in the Health Sector.

Reduce human interactions

Besides using the situational analysis model, Deborah Mlongo highlighted the need to morph and adopt a more digital approach in dealing with NHIF.

By embracing digital platforms, Mlongo argued that the human-to-human interaction will be reduced thus lowering instances of graft in NHIF.

“We should have a digital platform that reduces human-to-human interactions,” Mlongo stated.

Shift from NHIF to SHIF

Mlongo further rooted for the situational analysis to address the gaps in shifting from NHIF to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

“With the gaps and challenges facing the shift from NHIF to SHIF, my approach is a consultative one. It is critical to bring all stakeholders together. We also need to involve the community and ensure they are well-informed,” she emphasised.

She also expressed support for SHIF which is set to be implemented.

At the same time, Mlongo proposed a multi-sectoral approach to address the longstanding stalemate that exists between the National Government and County Governments.

She raised concern over the clashing of roles implemented by the devolved units and national government. However, Deborah Mlongo pushed for proper delineation of roles to end the stalemate.

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