The Cabinet Secretary for Health Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa has provided key updates as far as transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) is concerned.
CS Barasa who appeared before a National Assembly Health Committee said over 13.8 million beneficiaries have been registered by November 2024, despite challenges in some counties.
The employer registration drive has enrolled 34,748 employers, while 6,517 healthcare facilities are now using the Social Health Authority (SHA) claims portal to streamline claims processing.
In addition, the Health CS presented a report on means testing in eight counties, showing steady progress.
Dr. Barasa also highlighted the work of Community Health Promoters (CHPs), who are providing essential health services at the community level.
She confirmed that while 100,000 kits have been distributed, 7,831 CHPs are still awaiting equipment.
The government is providing stipends of Ksh 5,000 to 107,831 CHPs, though data processing challenges persist.
What’s the status of UHC workers?
Addressing the status of UHC workers hired in 2020, Dr. Barasa confirmed that their contracts have been extended for an additional two years, with some workers already absorbed by counties. Plans for permanent placements are underway for the remaining workforce.
“The Ministry of Health remains committed to resolving these challenges and ensuring the smooth rollout of SHIF and UHC services across the country, with a focus on enhancing healthcare access for all Kenyans,” Dr. Barasa stated.
She was accompanied by Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni, Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, the Chair and CEO of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and senior ministry officials.
