Chairperson of Health Committe Addresses Concerns Over Integrated Information Technology System Procurement
In a statement issued today, the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Health provided clarifications regarding the procurement process for the Integrated Information Technology System (IITS) designed to enhance Universal Healthcare in Kenya. This announcement precedes the operationalization of the Social Health Insurance Act, No. 16 of 2023, which establishes the Social Health Authority (SHA).
The Chairperson confirmed that the Committee had raised concerns about the absence of a formal consent letter from the Office of the Attorney General, a requirement under the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act. However, the Ministry of Health presented the necessary clearance, ensuring compliance with legal standards aimed at safeguarding public funds.
Members of the Committee also inquired about Safaricom PLC’s role as the lead partner in the Consortium, which includes Apiero Limited and Konvergenz Network Solutions Limited. The Ministry emphasized that Safaricom’s extensive telecommunications infrastructure, particularly its reach of 77% of the population via its 5G network, made it the most suitable partner for the project.
The contract amount of Kshs. 104.8 billion has raised questions regarding its scope. The Ministry clarified that this figure encompasses a range of components aimed at developing a comprehensive healthcare system, including telemedicine services and a Health Information Management System, rather than being solely for Social Health Insurance.
Concerns were also raised regarding the Specially Permitted Procurement (SPP) included in the Ministry’s annual procurement plan. The Ministry confirmed that the SPP had received formal approval, aligning with mandates to maintain an integrated health information system.
On the topic of potential conflicts of interest, the Ministry reassured the Committee that due diligence was conducted by Kaplan & Stratton Advocates, not Dentons Hamilton Harrison & Mathews, thereby affirming the integrity of the procurement process.
Addressing infrastructure challenges, the Ministry acknowledged that over 4,000 hospitals face difficulties with electricity and network connectivity. To tackle this, hospitals will be provided with devices equipped with power banks, and the digital system will function in offline mode to ensure continuity of operations.
In response to concerns about the potential failure of the digital healthcare system, the Ministry assured that multiple connectivity lines would support the system to prevent disruptions.
The comprehensive statement reflects the Ministry’s commitment to transparency and its proactive approach to implementing a robust healthcare system for all Kenyans.
Post Author
