The government, the Social Health Authority (SHA), and the Union of Kenya Civil Servants (UKCS) have reached a joint agreement aimed at resolving operational challenges that have recently disrupted healthcare access for public officers under the Public Officers Medical Scheme Fund (POMSF).
In a joint communiqué signed on April 23, 2026, the three parties acknowledged widespread concerns over denied services and unauthorized co-payments, pledging immediate corrective measures to restore confidence in the scheme.
“We jointly reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the health, dignity, and well-being of the Kenyan civil servant,” the statement reads, underscoring the urgency of stabilizing healthcare delivery.
Why SHA tariff locking has been withdrawn
A key resolution includes the immediate withdrawal of tariff locking within the system—a move expected to ease friction between healthcare providers and beneficiaries at the point of care.
During the transition period, strict directives have been issued to health facilities.
“Crucially, in this interim period… all health facilities offering POMSF services are strictly prohibited from charging any civil servant or public officer any out-of-pocket fees,” the communiqué states.
Did SHA reduce benefits?
The parties also moved to calm fears over benefit reductions, clarifying that existing medical cover remains unchanged despite recent confusion.
“The contractual limits… alongside comprehensive optical and dental limits—remain fully intact,” the statement affirms, dismissing claims that benefits had been scaled down.
Beyond immediate fixes, SHA signaled a broader reform agenda focused on safeguarding the sustainability of the fund. This includes tighter oversight of claims and a review of service providers.
“To protect the integrity of the medical fund, SHA will rigorously enforce approved cost-containment measures, including regular claims audits to detect fraud,” the statement notes, pointing to increased scrutiny within the system.
The agreement comes after weeks of complaints from civil servants who reported being turned away from hospitals or asked to make additional payments, raising concerns about the reliability of the scheme.
The communiqué was signed by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, SHA CEO Dr. Mercy Mwangangi, and UKCS Secretary General Lawrence Nyaguti Ochieng.
A comprehensive list of contracted facilities will be published to guide civil servants seeking services, as efforts shift toward restoring seamless access and rebuilding trust in the medical scheme.
