Advocates Raise Alarm Over Challenges in Transition to Social Health Insurance Fund
Karen, Nairobi Press Briefing
KELIN and FIDA-Kenya, renowned advocates for health and women's rights, have expressed deep concerns regarding the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023. Despite Article 43 of Kenya's Constitution guaranteeing every person the right to health, including reproductive health, the shift has revealed significant systemic gaps, hindering access to equitable and affordable care for many Kenyans.
The rollout of SHIF has been fraught with confusion, lack of public awareness, and insufficient health system preparedness. As a result, many Kenyans remain uninformed about changes to healthcare access, with facilities refusing to offer services, patients detained over unpaid bills, and treatments for chronic illnesses disrupted. These issues disproportionately impact vulnerable populations, including persons with disabilities, minorities, and those living in poverty.
KELIN and FIDA-Kenya urged the Ministry of Health and the Social Health Authority (SHA) to prioritize developing clear operational guidelines and communication strategies to ensure seamless access to healthcare. They emphasize the need for public sensitization campaigns targeting healthcare professionals, facilities, and the general public to restore trust and transparent working.
While the ongoing digitalization of health records is promising, it risks excluding marginalized groups due to the digital divide. Inclusive systems must be implemented to ensure no one is left behind. The SHA should also operationalize feedback mechanisms and reimbursement systems for patients forced to make out-of-pocket payments since October.
They also noted that the transition to SHIF must align with the principles of Universal Health Coverage by reducing financial barriers, ensuring adequate resources, and protecting the rights of the most vulnerable. KELIN and FIDA-Kenya call on the Ministry of Health to act swiftly to resolve these critical issues and reaffirm Kenya's commitment to the constitutional right to health.
"We believe in a society where every person is treated with dignity and respect as enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya, 2010. The current transitions fall short of this dignity for the people they are meant to serve. We urge the Ministry of Health to take swift action in addressing these critical concerns," the advocates stated.
Written by Edwin Muthomi.
