However, he insists that it is a step forward in improving healthcare services in the country.
“We are a work in progress. I am not claiming perfection, but every single problem becomes an opportunity for us to fix the system,” Kuria said.
He added that he regularly updates the President on areas that need improvement.
The SHA, which replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), aims to provide universal healthcare coverage to all Kenyans.
Despite its promise, the system has faced criticism due to challenges such as technical failures and overcrowding in hospitals.
Kuria revealed that other African countries are closely watching Kenya’s SHA model.
He mentioned that nations such as Zimbabwe, Ghana, and Sierra Leone have shown interest in adopting similar systems.
“No other developing country has attempted what we are doing. That is why leaders from other countries are coming to learn from us,” he stated.
According to Kuria, the high number of patients visiting hospitals under the SHA is a sign of public trust.
He explained that people who could not afford healthcare before are now seeking medical attention because of the new system.
The introduction of SHA has not been smooth. Patients have complained about long queues and delays due to system failures.
However, Kuria assured Kenyans that these issues are being addressed.
“We had a few glitches in the provider’s portal, but they have been resolved. No patient is being turned away,” he said.
He urged Kenyans to be patient as the government works to improve the system.
He also encouraged healthcare providers to fully embrace SHA to ensure all Kenyans receive medical services without discrimination.
To make SHA more accessible, the government has introduced programs such as Afyaboda na Karinda in Embu County.
This initiative offers boda boda riders a 50% waiver on their Taifa Care premiums.
“We are making sure that even the most vulnerable groups in our society can access healthcare. No one should be left behind,” Kuria emphasized.
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