More than 13 Million registered for SHA - MOH

Nairobi, 

Friday, 8 November, 2024

McCreadie Andias 

The Government has registered atleast 13.8 Million Kenyans to the Social Health Authority (SHA) as of November 2024, Health CS Deborah Mlongo confirmed. 

The CS who appeared before the National Assembly Health committee to to respond to questions about the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF),noted that the government has also deployed means testing to fast Track effective registration. 

The CS also confirmed that the employer registration drive has enrolled 34,748 employers, while 6,517 healthcare facilities are now using the SHA claims portal to streamline claims processing.

The Social Health Authority which was rolled out on October 1st to enhance the delivery of the Universal Healthcare coverage, targets atleast 36 Million Employed and non-employed Kenyans as per the MOH. 

The government has continued to insist that the entire process is inclusive, transparent and credible, whereas no Kenyan will be left behind in terms of accessing affordable healthcare under SHIF at Health facilities. 

Furthermore, The Government has directed all hospitals to adopt the transition ensuring Kenyans that no money will be lost during the transition. 

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 is providing stipends of Ksh 5,000 to 107,831 CHPs, though data processing challenges persist.

Addressing the status of UHC workers hired in 2020, Dr. Barasa confirmed that their contracts have been extended for an additional two years, with some workers already absorbed by counties. 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,” Dr. Barasa stated.

Kenyans are being encouraged to enroll and register Under SHA by simply using their mobile gadgets or visiting local hospitals.