The Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) has announced that Kenyans will still be able to access the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and make contributions.
This decision comes after Health CS Susan Nakhumicha extended the deadline for the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) rollout to October 1, 2024.
FKE in a statement said the NHIF contributions will continue to be in use for a period of three months starting July 1, 2024.
“The Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) wishes to bring to your attention that the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Health has announced an extension period for the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Act. No. 16 of 2023 (SHI Act) by an additional 3 months (July to September 2024),” FKE said.
“During this period Kenyans will continue to access old NHIF benefits and remit contributions. We therefore notify you of the continuation of the usual NHIF Contributions. Please note and ensure compliance with this directive.”
Registration on SHIF Started on July 1 and deductions are expected to commence on November 22, 2024, when the repealed NHIF will be officially ceased.
“This is to inform you therefore, that SHA (which has taken over from the NHIF), has resolved to extend the current healthcare provider contracts for a period of three months effective July 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024, to allow for seamless transition from NHIF to SHA” read part of a circular.
About SHIF Replacing NHIF
Nakhumicha in a document published earlier broke down treatment tariffs that will be used under SHIF.
She revealed that Kenyans with SHIF insurance policies will also be able to access six free services at SHIF-accredited hospitals in the country.
Among the services Kenyans will be able to access include HIV testing and follow-up tests, access to Antiretroviral (ARV) treatment, family planning, and antimalarial medication and testing.
SHA deductions have been capped at 2.75% for all contributors, with higher income earners expected to pay more than lower earners.
The lowest contributor will now pay Ksh 300, compared to the current Ksh 500 paid to NHIF.
Also Read: CS Nakhumicha Announces Date SHIF Registration Will Start, Details Process of Registering
Under the new law, all Kenyans are required to contribute to the scheme, except for indigents whose contributions will be covered by the government. Additionally, each individual spouse must make separate contributions to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
For instance, if both spouses earn Ksh100,000, each will contribute 2.75%. If they opt for joint contribution, a total of 5.50% will be deducted from one of their salaries.
The Act defines a household as a social unit comprising an eligible contributor and their beneficiaries, or individuals who share the same socio-economic needs related to consumption and production.
Employed beneficiaries will have SHA deductions made monthly, while those in the informal sector will pay annually.
Also Read: Church-Owned Hospitals Raise Alarm Ahead of SHIF Rollout as NHIF Ends
Services under SHA have been standardized irrespective of the contribution amount. This means that contributors paying Kh300 and those paying over Ksh1 million will receive equal services.
How to Register for SHIF
The registration to Social Health Authority (SHA) can be conducted through self-registration by use of USSD code *147# or via the online platform on www.sha.go.ke.
All NHIF branch offices across the country will also be used as registration centers, in addition to support by Community Health Promoters at villages.
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