Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa says over 1.2 million people have so far registered for the Social Health Authority programme ahead of its rollout on October 1.
Speaking during the launch of the countrywide training, Barasa said SHA will move current National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) members to the new system emphasizing the need to finish the registration process.
“Over 1.2 million people have voluntarily registered. Ensure you register before visiting healthcare facilities. SHA will transfer existing NHIF members to the new system, so it’s important to complete your registration,” she said.
Barasa said through SHA, the government will be able to ensure comprehensive coverage across the nation.
Barasa urged more Kenyans to register with SHA before seeking treatment at healthcare facilities, noting that the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to SHA is crucial.
She emphasized the importance of completing registration to ensure uninterrupted access to healthcare.
“We urge Kenyans to continue registering with SHA. Over 1.2 million people have voluntarily registered. Ensure you register before visiting healthcare facilities. SHA will transfer existing NHIF members to the new system, so it’s important to complete your registration,” Dr. Barasa stated.
The CS said the ministry, through the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council, is working with all health facilities including public, private and faith based on full registration and licensure in readiness for the rollout of services under Social Health Authority.
The defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) will officially cease operations on September 30, marking the end of an era for the country’s previous health care financing model.
Starting October 1, SHA will take over, under the new, digitized platform.
SHA will cover preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative health services at level 4, 5, and 6 health facilities. This includes emergency services, critical care, and the treatment of chronic illnesses beyond the benefits outlined in the essential healthcare package of the Social Health Authority.