The Ministry of Health has unveiled a panel of experts from the University of Nairobi to review and recommend comprehensive reforms to the Social Health Insurance (SHA).
The Benefits Package and Tariffs Advisory Panel (BPTAP) domiciled at the Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (CEMA) of UON, will bring together experts from health economics, epidemiology, actuarial science, and health sciences.
According to Health Cabinet Secretary, Deborah Barasa , the panel will review and recommend comprehensive health benefits packages, advise on fair pricing and tariffs for healthcare services, and monitor the impact of the SHA.
The CS pointed out that the panel will commence work immediately with a comprehensive review of the benefits package expected within two years.
"The panel will serve as a critical advisory body to guide decisions around the Social Health Insurance Programme," she said.
According to the CS, the establishment of the panel is fundamental in ensuring transparency and accountability in the healthcare sector, in addition to propelling the country towards attaining Universal Healthcare Coverage and addressing financial challenges in the health sector.
"The panel will help prioritize cost-effective high-impact interventions. This approach will guide resource allocation to ensure Kenyans receive quality health care without compromising financial sustainability.
"We are fostering strong partnerships across government academia, the private sector, and the civil society to ensure, transparency, accountability, and diverse stakeholder input," she added.
According to the CS, the government, in collaboration with key stakeholders, will commit to foster a healthcare system that upholds equity, affordability, and sustainability.
CS Deborah said that over 19.3 Million Kenyans have so far registered with SHA, marking a " significant progress in rolling out the Social Health Authority (SHA)"with 8,813 out of 17,755 active health facilities having successfully enrolled.
The ministry has however said that it will expand community outreach to ensure a swift transition from manual to digital systems by healthcare facilities.
"Despite these achievements, some challenges persist. Registration rates are low on weekends, and counties like Turkana, West Pokot, and Samburu continue to show limited uptake," it said.
