Residents of Tharaka Nithi County have strongly supported a proposed Health Facility Funding Bill during a public hearing convened by the County Assembly in Chuka on Thursday. The forum, attended by healthcare workers, civil society representatives, and local community members, was part of an ongoing public participation exercise aimed at gathering grassroots views before the bill is tabled. Many participants said the legislation marks a major step toward improving service delivery in public hospitals, noting that predictable and transparent funding would help ensure timely access to medicine, equipment, and critical healthcare services.
During the session, residents highlighted persistent challenges facing health facilities across the county, including irregular supply of essential drugs, delayed disbursement of operational funds, and a shortage of medical personnel. Healthcare staff who spoke at the forum said that granting facilities more financial autonomy would enable them to plan better and reduce reliance on bureaucratic approval processes that often slow down service delivery. Members of the County Assembly’s Health Committee explained that the bill seeks to establish clear guidelines on how funds will be allocated, utilized, and audited, assuring residents that their concerns will inform the final draft.
The public’s overwhelming endorsement of the bill underscores growing demand for stronger and more accountable health systems at the county level. Local leaders encouraged the assembly to expedite the processing of the legislation, saying improved financial management would reduce referrals to distant hospitals and strengthen primary healthcare. Many residents expressed hope that the changes would translate into shorter waiting times, enhanced emergency response, and an overall boost in the quality of care. As public consultations proceed in other sub-counties, county officials say they expect even more input from communities eager to shape reforms that directly impact their wellbeing. If passed, the Health Facility Funding Bill is expected to introduce a more efficient and sustainable approach to health financing in Tharaka Nithi, potentially setting a model for other counties facing similar challenges.