Challenges emerge as registration of new medical scheme continues

SHA Chair Dr Timothy Olweny (from left) PS Medical Services Harry Kimtai and NHIF CEO Elijah Wachira before National Assembly's Health Committee to deliberate on transition of the NHIF to SHA at the Bunge Towers, Parliament, Nairobi. July 30th,2024. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

As registration for the new Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) continues, more than 400,000 individuals have been onboarded, according to Medical Services Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai

Kimtai shared the development while appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Health on Tuesday, July 30.

However, the PS acknowledged several challenges facing the SHIF implementation.

"Multiple court cases are challenging the implementation of the Social Health Authority," he informed the committee.

He also cited a lengthy procurement process that has delayed the acquisition of the necessary system.

"The process of developing health benefit packages requires adequate stakeholder engagement, which is time-consuming," Kimtai explained, noting that funding issues have equally hampered progress, as the program heavily relies on the informal sector, which is financially volatile.

Additionally, the new SHA structure depends significantly on an ICT system, posing challenges in areas with limited internet connectivity and power supply.

The SHIF is part of the government's effort to achieve Universal Health Coverage, aiming to provide all Kenyans with access to free quality health services, including treatments for critical illnesses such as cancer.

The registration exercise, which began on July 1, can be completed via self-registration using the code *147#, through the Social Health Authority website, with the help of Community Health Promoters, or by visiting NHIF offices and other designated registration points.