The Kenya Association of Private Hospital (KAPH) has asked for right of reply and hearing from the suspended service providers, over the allegations relating to the NHIF insurance fraud.
In a statement released by the KAPH chairman Dr. Abdi Mohamed, it claims that although KAPH as an organization does not condone, aid, any acts that jeopardize healthcare quality, the measures taken by Kenya Medical practioners and dentist council (KMP&DC) were unconstitutional. Regarding the handling of the NHIF scandal considered administration jurisdictional overreach.
“While a review of continued compliance with licensing, medical practice, patient welfare and safety requirements, the enforcement of rules relating to the conduct of medical camps falls within the mandate and expertise of the KMP&DC, the investigation of insurance fraud, relating to NHIF or other medical insurance providers, on the other hand, does not,” read part of the statement.
In the statement, it was noted that the suspension of the operating licenses of the health facilities involved by the KMP&DC confirms that they were duly registered and licensed to operate.
“It is, therefore, wrong to suspend first and investigate while there are many patients and staff who depend on these facilities.”
In the statement, KAPH urges KMPDC to follow the laws as envisaged in the ACT and the code of professional conduct and discipline.
Consequently, of the functions that NHIF as a body has, should be revised. For accountability, some of the functions should be delegated to other bodies. It is the systemic power that NHIF wields that creates avenue for corruption and collusion between NHIF staff and providers.
“It is imperative that any inquiry conducted on the allegations involve other investigative agencies with the requisite capacity to accord them impartiality and legitimacy.”
In order to strengthen healthcare system in Kenya, KAPH is optimistic that any measures taken to correct the violations alleged it will be constitutional and in accordance to the law.
