The State has assured Kenyans of the safety of their contributions as the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) embarks on the journey towards transition to the new Social Health Authority.
Towards allaying anxiety among Kenyans regarding changes in the health scheme, the government has further put in place a transition committee to ensure there is continuous service delivery and develop guidelines and operational mechanisms during the transition period for audit.
National Syndemic Disease Control Council (NSDCC) Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ruth Masha who represented Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Susan Nakhumicha during a public sensitization on the NHIF changeover, held at the Nakuru Agricultural Trade Fair grounds in Nakuru, affirmed that President Ruto’s Social Health Insurance Fund represents a transformative initiative aimed at addressing the healthcare needs of the citizens.
She termed SHIF as a comprehensive health insurance programme poised to bring about abundant benefits, positively impacting the lives of Kenyans across various socio-economic strata.
NHIF has a total of 15.4 million members. Out of this, only 6.7 million are active members. In the 2021/2022 financial year, NHIF collected a total of Sh61.53 billion from its members.
The 57-year-old NHIF is set to be disbanded and replaced by the Social Health Authority thanks to the Social Health Insurance Bill of 2023.
The Court of Appeal last month lifted an order blocking the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) paving the way for the government to roll out the new Universal Health Care (UHC) laws.
A bench of three judges lifted the order blocking the roll-out following an application at the court for a temporary suspension of the High Court directive pending the determination of the case filed by Joseph Enock Aura.
The Appellate court ruling now allows the government to start the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, Primary Health Care Act, 2023 and Digital Health Act, 2023. The three laws replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
The government had published the draft Social Health Insurance (General) Regulations, 2023 at the end of last year and invited members of the public to give their views.
Dr Masha explained that SHIF introduces a universal healthcare system that will guarantee access to essential medical services to all Kenyan citizens adding that the element of the proposed fund’s inclusivity was a pivotal step towards reducing health disparities and promoting health equity.
“A major ingredient of the Fund is that it comes with huge financial relief to families. Medical expenses exert substantial financial pressure, tipping many families into poverty. President Ruto’s initiative seeks to lessen this by scattering the cost of healthcare across the population,” stated the NSDCC CEO.
The new agency will be responsible for administering three distinct funds – Primary Health Care Fund, Social Health Insurance Fund, and Chronic Illness and Emergency Fund. Under the bill, the Primary Health Care Fund is designated to support preventive and promotive primary care services at the community, dispensary, and health centre levels.
The Social Health Insurance Fund will cover several services including direct referrals, and secondary and tertiary healthcare, while the Chronic Illness and Emergency Fund is designed to address chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer management, and emergency treatments.
The Ministry of Health has gazetted the transition committee to oversee changes in the health scheme.
The Transition Committee on the Social Health Authority is mandated to ensure a seamless transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Authority (SHA).
The Health Cabinet Secretary appointed the ten-member committee through a gazette notice dated January 25.
The transition committee is chaired by Jason KapKirwok.
Members of the committee include Dr Daniel Mwai (presidential health advisor and health economist), Dr Kipruto Chermusoi Chesang, Dr Jacinta Wasike, Gladys Wambui Mburu, Stephen Kaboro Mbugua and Dr Elizabeth Wangia. Other members are Christopher Leparan Tialal, Dr. Jacob Otachi Orina and Dr. Stanley Bii.
The committee is mandated to develop a legal and institutional framework for the coordinated transition to SHA.
Dr. Masha assured Kenyans the current management of NHIF is documenting the organization’s properties, liabilities, and assets, which will be handed over to the new authority.
Nakuru County Chief Officer in charge of Public Health Alice Abuki indicated that the Fund is designed to enhance preventive care measures.
She noted that regular check-ups and early detection of illnesses are crucial in maintaining public health adding that by providing coverage for preventative services, the programme encourages citizens to prioritize their well-being, leading to a healthier population and reducing the overall burden on the healthcare system.
“This initiative also aims to improve the quality of healthcare services. With a dedicated fund supporting healthcare providers, there is potential for increased investment in medical infrastructure, training, and technology,” observed the Chief Officer.
Furthermore, noted Ms Abuki the Fund will have positive implications for the workforce and productivity as a healthier population will translate into more productive workers and entrepreneurs, contributing to economic growth.
“By addressing health issues proactively, the initiative aims to reduce absenteeism and improve overall workforce efficiency. With a substantial portion of the population covered by the Fund, there is a likelihood of decreased pressure on government-funded healthcare facilities. This could result in shorter waiting times, improved service delivery, and better overall experiences for patients seeking care in public hospitals,” observed the Chief Officer.
Abuki also pointed out the program entrenches a strong sense of social solidarity as the collective approach reinforces social bonds and instils a sense of security among citizens, knowing that they are part of a system that cares for their well-being.
By Jane Ngugi and Jedidah Gitau
