Kiambu Afya programme, also known as ‘Wamatangi Care’, is enabling residents of Kiambu County to access healthcare services, at an affordable cost.
The programme is a collaboration between the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and the Kiambu County government, offering an affordable healthcare package to recipients.
The County government paid premiums for over 70,600 households, ultimately benefiting more than 300,000 registered individuals for the First Phase of the programme.
Speaking to residents of Munyu-ini, Gatundu South Constituency, Kiambu Governor, Kimani Wamatangi, said the program is in line with the President’s agenda on Universal Healthcare.
“Residents enrolled in the program can access in-patient services at accredited government hospitals across the country, outpatient care is also included in the package.” he said.
The Program also provides enhanced coverage for chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
The Scheme is said to extend its care to the end of life, offering a Last Expense Cover that allocates Sh100, 000 to the family of a registered beneficiary in case of their passing on, easing the burden of funeral expenses.
Wamatangi Care has now been moved to Level three and Level two hospitals after they were adopted by the National Health Insurance Funds.
The Department of Health Service County Chief Officer is working towards integrating Level Two and Three facilities into the NHIF system to ensure that registered residents access Kiambu Afya.
County Executive Committee Member for Health Services Elias Maina said to ensure the programme is a success and more hospitals are built and equipped, ensuring adequate resources and supply of drugs.
“The County is currently building six Level Four Hospitals, and 13 Level Three hospitals at a cost of Sh1.5 billion, while modern equipment worth Sh500 million has been ordered,” Maina said.
The Level Four hospitals include Thogoto in Kikuyu, Bibirioni in Limuru, Rukuma in Lari, Wangige and Githunguri, Karuri and Juja Level Four hospitals which are being constructed at a cost of Sh250 million each.
The Level Three hospitals are Ndumberi, Kiamumbi, Mwihoko, Kahawa Sukari, Ndenderu, Kiawaroga, Kawaida, Gitothua, Athena, Kahawa Wendani, Gitaru, Uthiru and Ndarasha which have been allocated Sh50 million each.
The Level Three hospitals will comprise outpatient, inpatient, 16-bed capacity maternity, 10-bed general ward, mini theatre, and mini-laboratory.
The significant boost in healthcare around the county is said to be promising and one to look forward to.
By Grace Naishoo
