Kenya's Universal Health Coverage stumbles over fragmented patient data
Kenya's push for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) faces a major hurdle: fragmented health data. While the country collects medical information, poorly connected systems prevent smooth sharing between facilities and counties. This gap undermines care quality and raises costs for patients and the health system alike.
UHC aims to provide quality healthcare without financial strain. But without reliable data sharing, patients often endure repeated tests, delayed diagnoses, and inconsistent treatment. These inefficiencies not only risk patient safety but also inflate expenses for households and providers.
The problem lies not in a lack of data but in its usability. Kenya's health records exist in isolated systems that fail to communicate effectively. Clinicians struggle to access complete medical histories, such as lab results or vaccination records, when patients move between facilities. This disconnect disrupts continuity of care and hampers decision-making.
Beyond individual treatment, incomplete data weakens disease surveillance. Without accurate, real-time information, authorities find it harder to map outbreaks, forecast drug needs, or shape effective health policies. Early detection of disease hotspots becomes difficult, leaving communities vulnerable to preventable health crises.
Experts argue that interoperable data systems must become a cornerstone of Kenya's health infrastructure. Currently, no figures confirm how many of the country's 47 counties have fully functional digital networks for seamless information exchange. Bridging this gap is critical for delivering on UHC's promise.
Improving data interoperability would streamline clinical workflows and cut unnecessary costs. It would also strengthen disease tracking and policy planning. For Kenya, making health data shareable and actionable remains a key step toward achieving UHC.
