Mary Muthoni, the Principal Secretary for Public Health. IMAGE/FILE

Ministry Warns Against Extended Tree-Hugging Activities

The Ministry of Health has warned Kenyans about the potential health risks of prolonged tree-hugging exercises, with reports indicating that some participants have suffered complications severe enough to require hospitalization.

Speaking to residents in Ngiriambu, Gichugu Constituency, Kirinyaga County, on Thursday, Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni urged individuals to undergo proper medical check-ups before taking part in physically demanding activities, to identify any underlying conditions that could pose a risk.

Muthoni emphasized that even activities considered harmless can become dangerous without adequate preparation. She advised that anyone planning to participate in strenuous exercises should ensure they are physically prepared and have practiced beforehand.

In the same address, the Principal Secretary also warned healthcare facilities against exploiting patients enrolled in the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme. She stressed that beneficiaries are entitled to receive value for money when accessing medical services.

Muthoni criticized some private and faith-based hospitals for overcharging SHA cardholders in an attempt to maximize profits at the expense of patients.

She directed hospitals to clearly display their services, specifying which are free, covered under SHA, or require out-of-pocket payments, enabling patients to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary costs.

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