Laikipia residents get free NHIF cover

Nanyuki, Monday July 3, 2023

by Muturi Mwangi

Over 1000 vulnerable people in Laikipia County have been enrolled with the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to enable them access free medical services.

The vulnerable groups, including elderly members of the community, persons with disabilities and orphans are set to benefit from the Laikipia East National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG- CDF) kitty.

Speaking during the enrollment exercise in Nanyuki, area Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Patrick Muli called on residents to support the free NHIF initiative, noting it would go a long way in lowering the cost of medical expenses.

“Let’s support this program, the government is keen on delivering affordable health care to its citizens,” he said.

At the same time, Muli cautioned residents against being exploited by non-performing leaders, but rather support government-led programs for their benefit.

The DCC further said that plans were underway to enlist new Inua Jamii beneficiaries.

Simon Kinyua, one of the free NHIF cover beneficiaries lauded the initiative, saying it would caution him from unprecedented medical emergencies, without incurring much expenses.

John Mutethia, another beneficiary said that he didn’t have the medical cover earlier on and now having been enrolled with NHIF, it would be of great help to him.

On her part, Jecinta Mumbi, yet another beneficiary, said with no family member to support her medical expenses, the free medical cover was a major boost.

Mumbi, at the same time appreciated the media’s role in informing the society for the sake of the country's prosperity.   

The move comes after the county government urged residents to register with NHIF to avoid overburdening local health institutions with medical waiver requests, which were severely affecting financial stability of the health facilities.

Laikipia County Chief Executive for health Dr. Albeit Taiti, speaking in Oljabeti Sunday during a free medical camp decried the high number of those seeking medical waivers after being discharged from local hospitals.

Courtesy ; K. N. A