Duale inaugurates Benefits and Tariffs Panel to advance Universal Health Coverage

Politics
By Mike Kihaki | May 26, 2025
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale before National Assembmly Health Committee on May 14, 2025 [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

The newly formed Benefits Package and Tariffs Advisory Panel faces mounting pressure to tackle high treatment costs, lack of health data and fragmented donor programmes as it begins shaping the country’s push toward ="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/education/article/2001517567/teachers-can-now-access-sha-assures-duale">Universal Health Coverage<.
The panel, gazetted on April 23 under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, will guide the design and review of health benefits and tariffs. 
It is hosted at the University of Nairobi’s College of Health Sciences and includes a team of experts drawn from multiple disciplines.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the panel must confront deep-rooted challenges to make the ambitious health reforms work.
“High costs of treatment for chronic and complex illnesses,="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/national/article/2001517154/duale-public-hospitals-will-be-paid-directly-by-sha"> lack of standardised pricing<, insufficient health data and fragmented donor-funded programmes pose serious challenges,” said Duale during the inauguration on Monday, May 26. 
The panel’s core work will include developing benefits packages based on health needs, conducting assessments to ensure interventions are evidence-based and cost-effective and reviewing tariffs in line with current disease burdens and service gaps. 

It is also expected to identify essential services that remain out of reach for many and engage the public and providers in building fair policy.
“A healthier population is the foundation of a more prosperous nation. This panel is not just a technical body; it is a strategic investment in our human capital and a catalyst for economic growth,” noted Duale.
He added the ministry is fully committed to supporting the panel, which is expected to meet at least twice a year as the social health insurance system rolls out.

Share this story
Champions Blazers, USIU-A Mashujaa maintain top spots
Reigning Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) women’s Premier League champions Blazers Hockey Club remained at the summit of the table as the first leg of the 2025 season ended at the weekend.
Top players earn handicap promotions
Players were honoured when the curtains came down on three-day Calvary Cup that was snatched away by Off-Beat Safaris at Manyatta Polo Club over the weekend.
For Nairobi United to rise, mighty Gor Mahia had to fall
Nairobi United, also known as Naibois, completed a fairy-tale season on Sunday after stunning giants Gor Mahia 2-1 in the FKF Cup final at Ulinzi Sports Complex.
School Games: Onjiko banned for three years as Kisumu Day to face Kisumu Boys in semis replay
The verdict, issued by the County Director of Education’s office, followed investigations conducted between June 21 and June 24, confirming that Onjiko breached the KSSSA constitution.
Selestine and Karia swings to victory at Nyanza Golf Club in Kisumu
Karia carded an impressive 41 stableford points to beat a strong field in the event that attracted top golfers from across the region.
.
RECOMMENDED NEWS