The Ministry of Health recently announced the release of Ksh 9 billion to the Social Health Authority (SHA) to clear outstanding bills owed to healthcare facilities by the former National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
Health Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai shared that the funds, released on October 29, include an additional Ksh 1 billion allocated to the Linda Mama Program, a government initiative offering free maternity services to expectant mothers.
Speaking during the inauguration of the Rift Region Multi-Sectoral Committee in Nakuru, Kimtai assured that the funds would be credited to hospitals’ accounts by the end of the week.
This announcement arrives 29 days after SHA’s launch, a transition from NHIF aimed at establishing the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
SHA’s initial rollout encountered challenges, sparking concerns among healthcare providers, particularly faith-based and private institutions, which threatened to halt services due to delayed payments.
Kenyans have voiced frustrations over being denied healthcare services, an issue partially attributed to unresolved financial obligations. However, Kimtai stressed the government’s commitment to promptly addressing these challenges to prevent patients from being turned away at hospitals.
“We’re committed to addressing challenges to ensure no patient is turned away,” he affirmed, emphasizing the importance of accessible healthcare.
The disbursement of these funds is expected to provide significant relief to healthcare facilities and improve service access for thousands of Kenyans.
The Health PS further urged County Governments to educate their residents about the new health insurance scheme to promote seamless healthcare access.
Looking ahead, Kimtai highlighted the Ministry’s dedication to ensuring timely settlement of payment claims.
He pledged that, under the new SHA system, claims would be processed and cleared within 90 days, a measure intended to increase financial transparency and instill confidence among healthcare providers.
By Nairobi