The government has released Ksh 9 billion to the Social Health Authority (SHA) to settle outstanding bills incurred by healthcare facilities under the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), according to Medical Services Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai.
This allocation includes Ksh 1 billion specifically designated for the Linda Mama program, which aims to provide free maternal healthcare. Kimtai made this announcement during the inauguration of the Rift Region Multi-Sectoral Committee in Nakuru County, which comprises County Executive Committees (CECs) and County Commissioners from various regions, including Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, West Pokot, Uasin Gishu, Baringo, Turkana, Narok, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Samburu, Elgeyo, and Nakuru. The committee will oversee registration efforts for the SHA.
He emphasized the ministry’s commitment to ensuring timely payments for claims, which are now monitored daily and capped at a 90-day processing period to improve transparency. “We’re committed to addressing challenges to ensure no patient is turned away,” Kimtai stated. He also urged county governments to enhance public awareness, registration, and identification of indigent citizens to broaden healthcare coverage.
To support the rollout of SHA, the government has signed 26 agreements with the Council of Governors (CoG) aimed at improving medical equipment services in public facilities and has deployed 70 technical officers to assist county healthcare facilities.
“Counties must take ownership of this initiative to drive it effectively. SHA enables our healthcare system to provide timely, quality care for all,” Kimtai stressed.
Since the rollout on October 1, many patients have faced difficulties as healthcare facilities have demanded cash due to issues with the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) information management system and uncertainty regarding payments for outstanding NHIF bills.
President William Ruto affirmed the government’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Care (UHC). He highlighted plans to prioritize preventive healthcare, leveraging community health workers, reforming NHIF, and ensuring the availability of medical supplies and equipment.
“There have been two unsuccessful attempts to implement universal healthcare. This time, we are determined to succeed. Preventive care will help address health issues early in communities, reducing overcrowding in hospitals,” he stated during a meeting with Global Fund Executive Director Peter Sands at State House Nairobi.
In his Mashujaa Day address on October 20, Ruto announced the release of Ksh 3 billion to clear outstanding payments owed to healthcare providers under the UHC program, ensuring uninterrupted services as the country transitions to SHIF.
The President noted that over 12.9 million Kenyans are now enrolled in SHIF and encouraged private hospitals to participate in the UHC initiative, stressing the importance of accessible and affordable healthcare for all citizens.
