CS Barasa issues update on SHIF implementation

By Peter Ochieng

Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Health Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa on Thursday issued an update regarding the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

The CS appeared before the National Assembly's Departmental Committee on Health, chaired by Endebess Member of Parliament (MP) Dr. Robert Pukose, to respond to questions about the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to (SHIF).

The ongoing shift has been touted as a critical step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

CS Barasa provided key updates on SHIF implementation, noting that over 13.8 million beneficiaries had so far been registered, despite challenges in some counties.

The employer registration drive, she said, has enrolled 34,748 employers, while 6,517 healthcare facilities are now using the Social Health Authority (SHA) claims portal to streamline claims processing.

Concerning the status of UHC workers hired in 2020, Dr. Barasa confirmed that their contracts have been extended for an additional two years.

Some workers, added the CS, had already been absorbed by counties. Barasa said plans for permanent placements are underway for the remaining workforce.

“The Ministry of Health remains committed to resolving these challenges and ensuring the smooth rollout of SHIF and UHC services across the country, with a focus on enhancing healthcare access for all Kenyans,” stated the CS.

During the engagement with MPs, a report on means testing in eight counties was also presented, showing steady progress.

Dr. Barasa also highlighted the work of Community Health Promoters (CHPs), who are providing essential health services at the community level.

She confirmed that while 100,000 kits have been distributed, 7,831 CHPs are still awaiting equipment.

The government, she informed the MPS, is providing stipends of sH5,000 to 107,831 CHPs, though data processing challenges persist. One can register for SHIF through dialling *147# or visiting www.sha.go.ke

Assisted registration is being done at Huduma Centres, and through home visits by Community Health Promoters (CHPs) and SHA agents and branches countrywide.