Government assures Kenyans of transparent transition into SHA as rollout begins

Nairobi, 

Tuesday, 1 October, 2024

McCreadie Andias 

The Ministry of Health has assured all Kenyans that the transition of the Nation Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) will be an inclusive, equitable and transparent process. 

This comes as the government through the Ministry of Health officially rolled out the Social Health Authority on Tuesday, 1 October, 2024 which will enhance the Universal Health coverage. 

During a media interview at Citizen Television on Monday, Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth assured that no Kenyan will be left out during the process. 

“The Social Health Authority is inclusive and will leave no one behind in access to quality and affordable healthcare. Let's contribute, and the past struggles of seeking support from the National Treasury to fund healthcare in Kenya will be behind us.” – Dr. Patrick Amoth, DG Health.

Health CS Deborah Mlongo Barasa during the rollout in Kakamega County urged Kenyans to embrace the process. 

“I urge all Kenyans to embrace these transformative reforms and register for SHA to access the wide range of benefits it offers. Under this new programme, Primary Health Care will be completely free.”CS Deborah Barasa. 

Barasa further noted that the government has directed for all Kenyans to be accommodate in the process at Hospitals, which targeted over 36 million Kenyans both in the working and Non-working class. 

"No hospital or health facility will deny you service during this transition. We have already communicated that services must continue uninterrupted ahead of the implementation of this progressive scheme. – Dr. Deborah Barasa, CS Health.

The Social Health Authority (SHA) will play a crucial role in overseeing the implementation of this initiative, ensuring that all Kenyans have access to essential health services.

 “These services range from maternal care under the revamped Linda Mama program to emergency, surgical, and specialized care, available at both public and private facilities,” Health PS Mary Muthoni stated during the rollout in Kisumu.

Furthermore, PS Muthoni called on the county health department to collaborate with Community Health Promoters (CHPs) to support the registration process, ensuring that everyone is informed and able to participate in the transformation.

The Government has assures all Kenyans that no NHIF funds will be lost during our transition to the Social Health Insurance Fund. All contributions will be securely transferred to the new Social Health Authority, ensuring patients' right to treatment at any institution.

SHA will also enhance Linda Mama program, with expanded benefits including cancer and dialysis services to cover a wider scope. Emergency services will also be accessible to all Kenyans, whether registered or not.

Kenyans are encouraged to take advantage of these comprehensive services by registering for the SHI.

Registration is by dialing *147# or visit sha.go.ke to access vital health benefits.

Starting today, should you visit any public health facility in the country with your National Health Insurance (NHIF) card, you will be made to register afresh under the Social Health Authority (SHA) in order to access services.