The government has reiterated its commitment to free primary healthcare and the settlement of NHIF claims, assuring healthcare providers of continued support. The Social Health Authority (SHA) announced that all public healthcare services remain free for registered members, strengthening efforts to improve accessibility.
In a press release, SHA confirmed the disbursement of KES 5.1 billion this week to healthcare providers under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), bringing the total amount paid since October 2024 to KES 18.29 billion. “SHA continues to reimburse healthcare providers monthly,” the statement read, encouraging facilities that have received payments to continue offering services as NHIF debt resolutions progress.
The SHA also unveiled updates on its new capitation model, stating that KES 1.3 billion had been allocated to level 2 and 3 government facilities and select private level 4 facilities. Going forward, payments will be processed using actual data from SHA registrations rather than NHIF records.
To streamline payments, SHA urged healthcare providers to submit their Quarter 2 financial returns for FY 2024/2025, adding that training on the Primary Healthcare (PHC) reimbursement model will commence on February 27, 2025.
Addressing concerns over NHIF debts, SHA reported that KES 10 billion out of KES 19 billion in undisputed claims had already been paid, with reconciliations currently 60% complete.
Regarding private healthcare providers, SHA responded to claims by the Rural Private Hospitals Association (RUPHA), clarifying that “the Government does not owe RUPHA KES 30 billion.” However, training will be provided to improve claim accuracy and tracking.
SHA urged RUPHA facilities and other healthcare providers to remain engaged, ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services for all Kenyans.
