Kwale Governor Achani warns health workers against denying services to residents due to SHA registration

Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has warned health workers against denying patients medical services for lacking registration under the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Speaking on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, during the launch of the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence at Mtaa Primary School, Kasemeni ward in Kinango Sub-county, Achani said such actions amount to discrimination and violate the right to healthcare.

Also watch: Omtatah: SHA is extortion, not healthcare reform

Her remarks follow growing complaints from residents who allege they have been turned away from public health facilities for failing to produce SHA details.

Achani stressed that no resident should be denied treatment simply because they are not yet registered under the new health scheme.

“People should not be sent away because of SHA. Where will they get services when they have nothing?” she said.

She urged health workers to uphold compassion and professionalism.

The governor further acknowledged that while enrolling with SHA is important for sustainable healthcare financing, the process must not be used as a barrier to essential health services.

She directed health facility managers across the county to ensure that patients receive treatment first, and any registration issues are addressed later.

Achani said that many residents, particularly those living in remote rural areas, are already struggling with poverty and lack the financial means to seek alternative treatment.

Also watch: SHA funds to go directly to hospitals, not counties – Ruto

She said turning them away from public facilities simply because they are not registered with SHA is unjust and deepens existing health inequalities.

“Denying residents treatment because of SHA risks worsening health inequalities, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and low-income families,” she said.

Achani called on health officials to treat all patients with dignity, saying the county will not tolerate negligence or discrimination in public health institutions.

The governor, however, urged residents to make every effort to register with SHA so they can fully benefit from the expanded healthcare services and protections offered under the scheme.

She reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to strengthening the county’s health system, adding that the county government is working to stock facilities with essential medicines, improve staffing, and expand access to community health services.

The governor said her administration remains firmly committed to combating all forms of gender-based violence and to strengthening intervention mechanisms that ensure survivors receive timely support and justice.

She urged residents to report GBV incidents without fear, noting that silence only protects perpetrators and denies victims the justice they deserve.

Achani also emphasised that all county health facilities are mandated to provide free medical services to GBV survivors, including the filling and processing of P3 forms.

She warned that no victim should be charged for these essential services, adding that any facility found doing so will face disciplinary action.

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