The Ministry of Health (MoH) has issued directives to all healthcare providers and facilities after the successful national rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA) on October 1, 2024.
In a statement on Wednesday, October 2, Health PS Harry Kimtai instructed healthcare workers and hospitals to ensure that services for SHA members remain uninterrupted.
PS Kimtai said the Ministry is committed to supporting healthcare providers in maintaining seamless operations, ensuring patients continue to receive the care they need during this transition.
“Following the successful national rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA) on October 1st, 2024, the Ministry of Health directs all healthcare providers and facilities to ensure that services for SHA members remain uninterrupted,” read the statement in part.
At the same time, hospitals have been urged to continue offering services in line with the agreements, ensuring no patient is turned away and that essential treatments such as kidney dialysis, cancer care, and maternity services remain fully accessible.
MoH Issues Directives to Hospitals
The Ministry said it is encouraged by the positive response from healthcare facilities, with many already signing contracts under the SHA’s Healthcare Provider (HCP) provisions.
“The Government appreciates the ongoing commitment of healthcare providers and healthcare facilities in delivering critical services during this period,” said Kimtai.
The PS added that any challenges that arise will be addressed promptly, and we encourage open communication to ensure smooth collaboration between facilities and the Ministry.
Also Read: What Salaried Kenyans Will Contribute Monthly and Annually to SHA
To support healthcare providers and address any operational concerns, the MoH said it is taking immediate clarification of service levels and contracts to ensure smooth transitions and continued service delivery.
MoH also said that there will be strengthened public communication through social media and the SHA website to address frequently asked questions on topics such as member registration, dependents, and access to services.
Furthermore, there will be close collaboration with hospitals to ensure that all patients, including those scheduled for surgeries, receive uninterrupted care.
“The Ministry of Health remains fully committed to ensuring the success of the SHA rollout and to maintaining accessible, high-quality healthcare services for all Kenyans,” MoH said.
“For further information or support, please contact our customer experience centre through 0800 720 601. We will continue to provide timely updates as frequently as possible.”
Also Read: Unpacking Formula Govt Will Use to Determine What Unemployed Kenyans Will Pay to SHA
SHA CEO Elijah Wachira had earlier directed that payments for patients admitted during the period ending September 30 will be processed through NHIF, regardless of their discharge status.
About SHA Deductions
The Social Health Insurance (S.H.I) Act 2023 came into effect on 22nd November 2023 repealing the National Health insurance Fund (N.H.I.F) Act no. 9 of 1998.
According to Section 25 of the Act, SHA is responsible for purchasing healthcare services and ensuring that quality healthcare is provided to beneficiaries at the Healthcare Providers (HCPs).
The new health scheme is based on risk and resource pooling to increase the efficiency of the healthcare system and ensures that people pay for premiums into a pooled fund that can be used for those who need the services at no cost when they need the services.
With the introduction of SHIF, Kenyans will be required to pay 2.75 percent of their income. Employed individuals will pay this monthly, while those in the informal sector will make an annual payment in one installment.
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