Edwin Sifuna Tells Kenyans To Call Ruto if Hospitals Turn Them Away With SHA, Says They’ll Share His Number

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has called on Kenyans to reach out to President William Ruto directly if they are turned away from hospitals under the Social Health Authority (SHA) program. 

Sifuna’s comments come after President Ruto reminded the public that outpatient treatment under SHA is free and that no hospital should demand payment from patients registered in the scheme.

President Ruto had urged Kenyans to report to the police if any hospital tried to charge them for outpatient care. 

He emphasized that some facilities may attempt to bill both the patient and the government, calling on citizens to help stop this practice by reporting such cases.

However, Senator Sifuna questioned the effectiveness of SHA in helping Kenyans.

Speaking in the Senate, he highlighted cases where mothers with newborns were detained over unpaid hospital bills, asking why the scheme was not settling these charges as it should. 

He argued that relying on police intervention is not enough and encouraged citizens to contact the President directly.

“It is worrying that Kenyans are left on their own when it comes to healthcare. There is hope, but we need a government that truly prioritizes people’s welfare,” Sifuna said.

He also mentioned that the president’s number could be shared so that citizens facing challenges in hospitals can seek help immediately. 

Sifuna pointed out that transparency in reporting and accountability are key if SHA is to work effectively.

In addition to healthcare concerns, Sifuna raised issues regarding Nairobi County’s financial management. 

He criticized a recent directive requiring health centers to close accounts with tier-one banks and instead use Sidian Bank, a smaller institution, as the county’s main banker.

According to Sifuna, Nairobi collected around KSh 1.3 billion in the last financial year, whereas Sidian Bank’s total deposits were only about KSh 50 million, raising questions about the bank’s capacity to handle the funds.

“The county budget is far larger than what this bank can manage. I have requested an explanation from the governor, but there has been no response yet. If necessary, we will summon Governor Sakaja to the Senate for clarification,” Sifuna said.

Sifuna’s statements reflect growing concerns about SHA’s implementation and government accountability in Kenya. 

While the program aims to provide free outpatient services, issues such as unpaid bills and hospital detentions suggest that more oversight is needed to ensure it works effectively for citizens.

He urged Kenyans to be vigilant and proactive, using the channels available to hold both hospitals and the government accountable. 

Citizens who face challenges under SHA are encouraged to report their cases so that corrective action can be taken promptly.