Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga has called for sustainable healthcare financing, increased investment in local research and innovation, and development of a competent and compassionate health workforce as Kenya advances Universal Health Coverage (UHC) reforms.
Speaking in Nyeri during the 25th anniversary celebrations of Outspan Teaching and Referral Hospital (OTRH), Oluga stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in healthcare financing.
He highlighted the Social Health Authority’s role in strengthening healthcare financing and improving reimbursements to providers.
Oluga commended the Outspan Academic and Healthcare Ecosystem, comprising OTRH and Outspan Global University, for integrating healthcare delivery, medical training, research and innovation.
He said institutions such as Outspan are critical in bringing specialised medical services closer to communities and reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment.
The PS also urged training institutions to produce healthcare professionals who combine technical expertise with compassion, responsibility and commitment to patient-centred care.
He called for greater investment in locally driven research and innovation to strengthen Kenya’s health security and reduce reliance on imported solutions.
During the event, Oluga launched the Outspan Teaching and Referral Hospital and Outspan Global University Strategic Plan 2026–2035, which prioritises specialised services, training, research, innovation and digital health.
