Concerns have emerged over alleged patient detention practices at major public hospitals in Kiambu County after Kikuyu MCA Kamau James Boro called for investigations into the matter.
The MCA said the issue had become a serious concern and urged the County Assembly Committee on Health to thoroughly investigate allegations surrounding patients reportedly being held at county hospitals due to unpaid medical bills.
Speaking on the matter, Boro revealed that he had received information from an individual working within the Kiambu County Executive claiming that many of the detained patients are allegedly not residents of Kiambu County.
According to the MCA, questions have now been raised about the impact of prolonged patient detention on hospital operations, particularly in facilities already facing pressure due to limited space and increasing demand for healthcare services.
Boro questioned the benefit of retaining patients in hospitals after treatment, saying such individuals continue occupying beds meant for incoming patients while also increasing operational costs for county facilities.
He further claimed that officials had raised concerns over possible illegal activities allegedly emerging within hospitals due to the prolonged stay of some discharged patients.
According to information shared with the MCA, some individuals detained after recovery may engage in unlawful activities while remaining within hospital premises.
The remarks have now intensified public debate on healthcare financing and the challenges surrounding hospital bill settlements in public health institutions.
The MCA also linked the issue to low registration and inconsistent remittance under the Social Health Authority (SHA), arguing that patients who had registered and updated their contributions would face fewer discharge complications.
He urged residents to register for SHA services and ensure payments are made on time in order to avoid financial difficulties during medical emergencies.
The issue of patient detention over unpaid bills has remained a sensitive subject in Kenya, with concerns often raised over its impact on vulnerable families seeking treatment in public hospitals.
Healthcare stakeholders continue to emphasize the need for sustainable health financing systems that guarantee access to treatment without exposing patients to additional hardship.
Boro maintained that MCAs will continue exercising their oversight role to ensure accountability and proper service delivery within county health facilities.
The County Assembly Health Committee is now expected to follow up on the concerns raised as debate grows over healthcare management and patient welfare within Kiambu County hospitals.
