Dj Vnyash
The Ministry of Health has reassured the public that no patients will be detained in hospitals due to the NHIF-SHA transition, as stated in a release on Thursday.
The statement highlighted that the SHA is designed to enhance healthcare access for all Kenyans, ensuring that both public healthcare facilities and over 60% of private ones are contracted to deliver uninterrupted services.
Furthermore, the Ministry mentioned that its technical teams are diligently working to address the increased demand for services as the country adapts to this new system.
An updated list of contracted health facilities can be found on the SHA website, which will be regularly refreshed to include any changes and additions.
Afya House has also announced that a registration window has been created for Kenyans enrolling in the Social Health Authority (SHA), allowing them to receive treatment at contracted facilities without out-of-pocket expenses.
Members of the previous NHIF will still have access to services based on the premiums they paid earlier.
Acting Deputy Director General for Health, Sultani Matendechero, encouraged more individuals to register for SHA, which has already surpassed 12 million registrations.
He emphasized that all individuals should receive uninterrupted services and assured that hospitals should not refuse patients based on their registration status.
Health PS Harry Kimtai noted that the ministry will clarify the levels of service and contracts to facilitate a smooth transition.
He also promised to improve public communication through social media and the SHA website to address common inquiries regarding member registration, dependents, and service access. Hospitals are encouraged to adhere to SHA agreements to ensure essential treatments remain accessible.
However, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has expressed concerns about the SHA benefits scheme, arguing that it may restrict healthcare access. They claim that the reimbursement rates for hospitals are significantly lower than the actual costs of health services, potentially leading to additional expenses for patients.
