Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha has revealed 27 out of 67 hospitals that were audited between January and December 2023, have been suspended over the loss of Ksh.171 million through the NHIF program.

According to the cabinet Secretary about 40 per cent of total hospitals in the country (3,440) were involved in irregular processes resulting in the Ksh.20 billion losses.

“Extrapolating this to the total population of 8,886 hospitals, it is estimated that approximately 3,440 might have been engaged in fraudulent activities, potentially exceeding Sh20 billion in losses from about 40 per cent fraudulent hospitals. Luckily 60 per cent carry out clean business,” Stated CS Nakhumicha.

In a statement the CS blew the lid on the 20 billion shillings scandal noting that  manufactured claims and fake surgeries, among others fraudulently activities conducted by health facilities.

“The widespread nature of these alleged fraudulent cases is deeply concerning. The list of implicated facilities includes instances of induced demand, particularly targeting vulnerable citizens, notably older individuals, ”she added.

“Anomalies have also been identified, including facilities conducting an exceptionally high number of eye surgeries in a day, ranging from 10 to 22, in facilities with capacity of only 2 per day while lacking the adequate theatre capacity. Such discrepancies raise significant doubts about the legitimacy of claims and the resources available at these facilities.”

The ministry has reassured the public of restoring integrity in the provision of healthcare saying that a recovery of the claims is underway with Ksh.17.7 million so far recovered out of the Ksh.171 million lost.

ALSO READ: President Ruto: Kenyans will be treated for free starting from January 2024