SHIF: Ruto Reacts after Month of Stalemate into NHIF Transition to New Health Scheme

 

President William Ruto 

President William Ruto has assured Kenyans that the new Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) scheme will soon be functional. President William Ruto speaking during Mashujaa Day celebration in Kwale County. The government rolled out the Social Health Authority (SHA) for the implementation of SHIF, which was transitioned from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF).  What Ruto said about SHIF Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kwale county on Sunday, October 20, Ruto called for patience among Kenyans, saying the value of money from the scheme will be undeniable. .

 "I call on all Kenyans to have faith and a little patience. In a matter of weeks, the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) will be serving efficiently. The value for money in this scheme will be undeniable once the transition is completed and the fund is fully operational," said Ruto. The head of state affirmed that the transition from NHIF to SHA will not affect any staff employed under the previous scheme. He said the government will make sure that every staff member who has served under NHIF is transitioned into the current scheme. Payment of NHIF pending bills  

Early in October 2024, Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai disclosed that SHA has 485 interim employees who were previously NHIF employees, and the transition process is ongoing. Ruto directed the National Treasury to release KSh 3 billion in outstanding payments owed to hospitals. The president added that his administration will strengthen the provision of medical supplies through capacity upgrades and the establishment of Kenya Medical Supplies Agency (KEMSA) distribution centres.

How many Kenyans are registered in SHA? 

More than 12.9 million Kenyans are already registered with SHA, including former NHIF members. SHA urged all SHIF service beneficiaries to include their dependents while registering for SHA. The government said all public health institutions and 50% of private facilities have been onboarded to provide services. 

by  Wycliffe Musalia