Ahead of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) rollout, the Social Health Authority responded to frequently asked questions regarding the new healthcare cover.
SHA noted that most Kenyans had sought clarity over several issues regarding registration, benefits and access to health coverage as highlighted below.
Registration - What Identification documents are required?
As highlighted, Kenyans will provide a copy of their National Identification cards during the registration process.
On the other hand, during the registration of children, parents will need to produce the birth certificates.
"Foreign residents may use their Foreign Resident Certificate (Alien ID) or a Refugee ID for refugees," read the response in part.
Nationwide registration for SHIF is scheduled to commence on Friday, June 21. There will be modes for registration including self-registration via mobile phones. Registration will also be done in hospitals and through Community Health Promoters (CHP).
Dependents - Who qualifies as a dependent?
Dependents that will be recognised during the registration include spouses and children. However, relatives who are dependent on a contributor can be included as beneficiaries.
"Children can be registered for the Social Health Authority. An application for a child without a form of identification should be accompanied by documentation provided by the state department responsible for social protection," SHA stated.
"At the time of registration or updating membership details, contributors can list their dependents to be covered under their health insurance."
Biometric Access - How can beneficiaries access healthcare?
Once SHIF is fully operational, Kenyans will be able to access medical healthcare at registered medical facilities in the country after having their biometrics taken.
The Authority explained the biometrics will be taken for verification purposes.
Contributions - What contributions are made to the authority?
As highlighted in the SHIF Act, Kenyans will contribute to the authority to be covered. Employed Kenyans will be making contributions at the rate of 2.75 per cent of their gross salary.
Employers will also match the contributions that have been made by the employees.
On the other hand, Kenyans in the informal sector will also be contributing 2.75 per cent of their income. However, unemployed Kenyans who are above 25 years old will be contributing Ksh300.
"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," SHA stated.
Benefits - What are the benefits under SHIF?
"The fund covers integrated preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative health services provided at level 4, 5, and 6 health facilities," the Authority responded.
