The government has announced plans to reinstate a comprehensive medical insurance scheme for civil servants and public officers, a move aimed at addressing gaps in healthcare coverage since the discontinuation of the NHIF comprehensive medical plan. The new scheme will operate alongside the existing Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), providing civil servants with extended coverage once SHIF benefits are exhausted.
The initiative follows increasing pressure from stakeholders, including the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), which had advocated for additional healthcare support for civil servants. KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Bhimji Atellah expressed support, emphasizing the union’s role in the decision.
“This was one of our key demands,” Dr. Atellah noted, encouraging members to review the proposed regulations and submit feedback through the union.
According to draft regulations published last week, the scheme will be financed by Treasury allocations and medical allowances currently provided to civil servants. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi outlined the scheme’s purpose, stating, “The fund aims to ensure civil servants continue to receive comprehensive health services as part of their salary package.” Civil servants and other qualifying public officers will be eligible for coverage, but only after SHIF limits are fully exhausted.
The new medical scheme is intended to replicate the benefits provided by the former NHIF comprehensive plan, which covered principal members and up to six dependents. Benefits included outpatient and inpatient care, dental and optical services, annual checkups, emergency services, and overseas treatment. The NHIF plan’s cancellation led to widespread concerns about reduced healthcare access, particularly in light of rising medical costs.
The Treasury will accept public feedback on the draft regulations until November 18. Mbadi highlighted the importance of public input, stating, “A team of public officers from various government departments has finalized preparing the draft Public Finance Management (Public Officers Medical Scheme Fund) Regulations, 2024.”
Although the new scheme has garnered support, some civil servants worry it may lead to additional payroll deductions beyond the 2.75 percent contribution required for SHIF. However, Dr. Atellah clarified that “the government would fund the new scheme,” assuring civil servants that no additional deductions will be necessary.
