NAIROBI, Kenya- The Social Health Authority (SHA) is set to introduce a new clinical support tool designed to safeguard patients from harmful prescriptions.
Speaking yesterday, SHA Chief Executive Officer Mercy Mwangangi said the innovation will assist doctors in making more accurate and safe treatment decisions, reducing the risks of medical errors.
“This tool will provide real-time support to clinicians by flagging harmful drug interactions and guiding prescription choices. Our goal is to ensure that every Kenyan accessing care under the SHA receives safe, effective, and quality treatment,” Dr. Mwangangi said.
The announcement comes amid rising concerns about adverse drug reactions and misdiagnoses within the healthcare system. According to health experts, some cases of patient harm can be prevented if doctors are equipped with digital aids to cross-check prescriptions and treatment pathways.
The clinical support tool will be integrated into hospitals and clinics enrolled under the SHA program. It is expected to complement doctors’ expertise while promoting efficiency and consistency in care delivery.
“This is not about replacing medical judgment but enhancing it. The system will serve as a second eye, helping doctors avoid errors that can be life-threatening,” Dr. Mwangangi added.
Healthcare stakeholders have welcomed the move, saying it will not only improve patient safety but also build trust in the recently established Social Health Authority.
SHA, which replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), is restructuring Kenya’s health financing system to achieve universal health coverage. The clinical support tool is among its first major reforms targeting quality of care in addition to affordability.
The Authority has not yet disclosed the exact rollout date, but confirmed that pilot programs will begin in select facilities before nationwide implementation.
