Kenyans to Lose Benefits Until Contributions Resume Under New SHIF Policy

Health CS Susan Nakhumicha (left) meets President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi on August 1, 2023.
Health CS Susan Nakhumicha (left) meets President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi on August 1, 2023.
Photo
Susan Nakhumicha

Kenyans who fail to make monthly contributions to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) risk having their benefits coverage suspended under the new health policy.

As detailed by the Social Health Authority (SHA), the suspension will only be lifted once an individual resumes their payments.

All Kenyans above the age of 25 years will be making monthly contributions towards the new health insurance coverage.

Those who fall into this category and are unemployed will pay a monthly contribution of Ksh300 to the Authority.

A photo of  the NHIF building in Nairobi
A photo of the NHIF building in Nairobi's Upper Hill taken on March 4, 2020.
Photo
NHIF

On the other hand, those who are employed or earn an income will be making contributions at the rate of 2.75 per cent of their income or salary.

"Households are required to register all eligible members and contribute to the fund, ensuring coverage for all dependents.

"Members who fail to make contributions may face suspension of benefits until contributions are resumed," the Authority stated on its website.

On the other hand, vulnerable Kenyans will have their contribution catered for by relevant government authorities.

"Contributions to a Social Health Authority shall be through payroll deductions for employed individuals, direct contributions from self-employed individuals, and government subsidies for indigent and vulnerable populations," the Authority stated.

SHIF is set to be rolled out from July 1. However, the registration Nationwide registration will commence on June 22.

Kenyans will register for the new insurance through their phones, with the health of Community Health Promoters or at registration desks that will be set up in hospitals.

SHIF will provide benefits for primary healthcare services, referrals to secondary and tertiary care, and specific packages for chronic and critical illnesses.

A team of doctors at the Kenya University of Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) performing surgery in February, 2023
A team of doctors at the Kenya University of Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) performing surgery in February 2023
KUTRRH