Implementation of Universal Health Coverage Program in Kisumu County, Kenya: Importance of Social Marketing Strategies

Universal Health Coverage is where communities have access to all needed health services without financial hardship. In Kenya, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program was launched in December 2018, through a presidential decree. This study aimed to understand population needs, acceptability, and perceptions about UHC implementation. The study was undertaken in four pilot counties of Kisumu, Machakos, Nyeri and Isiolo between February and March 2019, using exploratory qualitative data collection techniques. However, this paper focuses on the County of Kisumu which was selected due to its high prevalence of infectious diseases. Respondents included women of reproductive age, men, youth, and elderly persons. In-depth interviews were conducted among health care providers and managers. Scientific and ethical approval was obtained from the Kenya Medical Research Institute’s Scientific and Ethical Review Unit (SERU). Consenting to participate was individualized. Analysis was done thematically. Findings suggest that UHC was understood variously by different groupings. Sensitization about the UHC programme was done through electronic media, by CHVs, education sessions, political class and outreaches. Planning for the programme was done by holding meetings, trainings for community registration and developing budgets. However there was a lot os misunderstanding, confussion and misconcepts about the UHC concept as it was seen as a means to seek for votes by politicians. Barriers for successful implementation included critically understaffed facilities.