Government releases Ksh.9B to adress pending bills incurred under NHIF

Nakuru, 

Tuesday, 29 October, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

The government has released KES 9 billion to the Social Health Authority (SHA) to address outstanding bills incurred by healthcare facilities under the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). 

This announcement comes 29 days after the rollout of SHA, with Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Mr. Harry Kimtai, confirming that the funds will be disbursed to facilities by the end of this week, including KES 1 billion allocated for the Linda Mama program to secure free maternal healthcare.

The PS chaired the inauguration of the Rift Region Multi-Sectoral Committee in Nakuru County on Tuesday where he engaged Rift Valley Region County Commissioners, County Executive Committees (CECs) and County Commissioners from Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, West Pokot, Uasin Gishu, Baringo, Turkana, Narok, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Samburu, Elgeyo, and Nakuru.

The committee is tasked with steering registration efforts for SHA in the regions, emphasizing the value of SHA and the benefits it has to offer to the public.

According to the PS, the consultative approach with administrators will ensure massive sensitization on SHA and efforts to encourage Kenyans to register with the authority to secure their loved ones well-being in regards to outpatient, inpatient, ambulance services, and emergency care, as well as the management of serious illnesses without incurring financial difficulties.

"The deliberation also allows us to work as a team to deliver the government's agenda and ensure that the public owns the process of SHA rollout." Kimtai noted. 

The PS said that the Ministry is committed towards timely payments now monitored daily and capped at a 90-day processing period to enhance transparency. 

“We’re committed to addressing challenges to ensure no patient is turned away,” Mr. Kimtai affirmed.

He encouraged county governments to increase public awareness, registration, and the identification of indigent citizens to expand healthcare coverage.

The PS revealed that the government has signed 26 agreements with the Council of Governors (CoG) to enhance medical equipment services in public facilities and has deployed 70 technical officers to assist county healthcare facilities.

He challenged counties to support the Government on the implementation of SHA

“Counties must take ownership to drive this initiative effectively." He said.