The government has announced the release of Ksh9 billion to the Social Health Authority (SHA) to end the hiccups experienced during the rollout of the new health cover.
This funding aims to address outstanding bills incurred under the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), providing much-needed financial relief to healthcare providers and Kenyans who had been turned away from some health facilities.
Medical Services Permanent Secretary Harry Kimtai shared that the funds are expected to reach the relevant facilities by the end of this week.
This includes Ksh1 billion earmarked for the Linda Mama program, which ensures free maternal healthcare for mothers.
“I am pleased to announce that the government has officially 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),” PS Harry Kimtai stated on X on October 30, 2024.
He added, “I can confirm that the funds are currently being disbursed to facilities, and by the end of this week they’ll have reflected in their accounts, including KES 1 billion allocated for the Linda Mama program.”
The SHA’s initiative aims to unify the medical records of 54 million Kenyans, linking them with all health providers—whether public, private, or faith-based.
This new framework promises equal benefits for all Kenyans, eliminating the preferential treatment previously seen with NHIF for civil servants.
However, since its rollout on October 1, 2024, the new system has faced significant challenges.
Distressing reports have emerged of patients being turned away from health facilities due to the new system’s inaccessibility.
Additionally, confusion stemming from miscommunication has raised concerns about the necessity of transitioning from the seemingly effective NHIF.
Despite these challenges, the government’s allocation of Ksh9 billion to SHA is viewed as a vital step toward resolving the current issues and facilitating a smoother transition to the new health cover system.
