Nairobi: The Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi (AKUH,N) and the Social Health Authority (SHA) have formalized a strategic partnership to provide Kenyans access to essential medical procedures under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme without incurring out-of-pocket expenses. This collaboration aims to facilitate kidney transplants and heart surgeries for eligible individuals, ensuring they receive necessary care at no direct cost.

The agreement was signed during a ceremony at Aga Khan University’s Nairobi campus, attended by Health Cabinet Secretary Hon Aden Duale and AKUH,N’s CEO Rashid Khalani. A key component of the agreement is SHA’s role in vetting and approving patients for treatment, with funding covering up to KES 700,000 (approximately USD $5,450) per case, including surgery and post-operative care.

AKUH,N will deliver surgical and post-surgical care in line with national standards, maintaining comprehensive patient records and submitting timely invoices to SHA. The hospital will also provide regular updates on treatment outcomes and procedural data to SHA.

“This partnership supports our commitment to Universal Health Coverage by making advanced medical care accessible to all Kenyans, regardless of their economic status,” said Hon Aden Duale. He emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in accelerating access to life-saving care for vulnerable citizens.

The partnership is further bolstered by AKUH,N’s Patient Welfare Programme, which annually provides financial aid to patients unable to afford specialized care. Rashid Khalani, AKUH,N CEO, expressed the hospital’s dedication to societal welfare by offering quality medical services to those most in need.

The Social Health Authority, under the Social Health Insurance Act, is tasked with implementing UHC through a national insurance scheme. This agreement represents a significant step in Kenya’s healthcare landscape, highlighting the role of collaborative efforts in achieving equitable and quality healthcare access.