NAIROBI, Kenya—The provision of healthcare services in the country is set to improve after the Ministry of Health (MoH) significantly advances Kenya’s digital health infrastructure.
As part of the Digital Health Act No. 15 of 2023, the Ministry has launched a public participation process to shape the regulations governing the implementation of digital health solutions across the country.
These regulations aim to create a secure, efficient, and integrated health system that will contribute to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all Kenyans.
These regulations will address vital areas, including secure data exchange for sharing health information, setting standards for e-health technologies to improve healthcare delivery, and ensuring the protection of patient privacy in health information management.
What did Patrick Amoth say about the exercise
During the internal stakeholder engagement at Afya House, Patrick Amoth, Director General for Health, emphasised the importance of public participation.
“A transparent and inclusive approach is essential to creating a system that meets the diverse needs of Kenyans,” Amoth said.
The ministry aims to involve all stakeholders, ensuring the final system works for everyone.
This collaboration marks a critical step toward a digitally connected future where healthcare is more accessible, efficient, and transparent.
“We welcome you all to participate in this consultation process and help shape the future of healthcare in Kenya,” the Ministry said.
Meanwhile, the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Deborah Baras, recently opened the first-ever Open Digital Health Summit in Nairobi, highlighting digital health as a key strategic investment in achieving Kenya’s national health goals.
The summit, co-hosted by the MOH, the Kenya Health Informatics Association, and the Pan African Association of Health Informatics (HELINA), aims to tackle the challenges of digital health in low- and middle-income countries.
In her opening remarks, the Cabinet Secretary highlighted the government’s commitment to integrating digital health as a cornerstone of the country’s healthcare transformation.
Why advancing digital solutions is critical
She stressed that advancing digital solutions will drive progress towards UHC and improve access to quality care for all Kenyans.
“Digital health is not just a tool; it is an essential part of our strategy to transform healthcare delivery,” said the CS.
She went on to say, “We are focused on building a digital public infrastructure for health, one that promotes open standards and interoperability to ensure seamless health information exchange and more efficient care coordination.”
The summit brings together key stakeholders, including health professionals, government officials, and representatives from global health organisations, to share insights and explore innovative digital health solutions.
A key focus of the event is developing talent, with Munveiledf Health unveiling its Digital Health Strategy, which aims to create a skilled workforce of public health informaticians.
