The Kisumu East National Government Constituency Development Funds (NGCDF) will roll-out a mass registration exercise for the Social Health Authority (SHA) across the Constituency to ensure the residents are registered and benefit from the program.
The registration takes place from Wednesday(today) January 29th to Tuesday February 4th in various designated venues across the wards.
According to the Bursary sub-committee Chairperson, George Onyango, the program aims at bridging the gaps in healthcare accessibility, particularly for the vulnerable population in the area.
Onyango while speaking to KNA at the Kisumu East NGCDF office in Kibos area on Tuesday, noted that the initiative is designed to address the challenges faced by individuals who struggle with traditional healthcare models.
He highlighted a key difference about SHA’s open access policy that enables members to seek treatment at any medical facility, unlike the defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), which restricted treatment to designated facilities.
“We believe that healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege, SHA is built on the principles of flexibility and inclusivity, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or financial status, can access quality medical care,” said Onyango.
He added, “The program’s flexible payment options are tailored to accommodate individuals with varying incomes. Members can contribute amounts ranging from as low as Sh.50 to 1000, making it accessible to even the most financially constrained.”
Further, Onyango noted that SHA prioritizes vulnerable groups, including the disabled, elderly, single mothers, and boda boda (motorcycle taxi) operators, who often face significant barriers to healthcare access.
“The initiative’s commitment to non-discrimination ensures that these individuals receive the medical attention they need without prejudice.”
He urged the members of the public to turn out in large numbers for the 7-day registration outreach program organized by the Kisumu East NGCDF.
Jackton Ocholla, Chairman of Kisumu East NGCDF expressed confidence in the program’s initial success rate evident in the growing number of beneficiaries.
“We have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of SHA on the lives of our members, the ability to access treatment without delay or discrimination has been life-changing for many,” Ocholla observed.
By Christine Akoth and Matilda Olala
