Kenya’s push to improve healthcare delivery under Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is picking up speed, with the TaifaCare Support Centre receiving more than one million calls less than a year after its launch.

On Tuesday, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale toured the Nairobi-based facility, which operates the 147 toll-free line, to review its role in strengthening the country’s health system.

According to the Ministry of Health, the centre, powered by the Digital Health Agency (DHA), has become a vital link that connects citizens, healthcare providers, and the government in real time.

The ministry also announced plans to roll out AI-powered chatbots that will give Kenyans round-the-clock access to services.

“This initiative demonstrates government’s commitment to building a responsive, transparent, and efficient health system. Kenyans are encouraged to register for TaifaCare via *147# or the AfyaYangu Platform, and to use the toll-free line to report service concerns.”

The progress comes as Kenya’s health sector continues to receive a total revamp with the Social Health Authority (SHA) taking over from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) in October 2024.

SHA runs three principal funds – the Primary Healthcare Fund, the Social Health Insurance Fund, and the Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund – all geared towards making health care more accessible and equitable.

Under the new model, registration is mandatory. Salaried employees contribute 2.75% of their income, while low-income households pay a flat rate of Ksh300.