SHAHealth Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa has unveiled significant reforms aimed at improving healthcare access for Kenyans, particularly in the areas of cancer and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) treatments, under the Social Health Authority (SHA). These changes were announced during a high-level forum on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) hosted by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in Nairobi on Monday.
The daily cover for ICU treatments has been substantially increased from KES 4,480 to KES 28,000. Barasa explained that this adjustment is part of broader reforms within the SHA and the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), aimed at making healthcare more affordable for all citizens. “We have revised the benefits and tariffs package. Additional funding through the supplementary budget will support the increase in ICU funding,” Barasa said.
In addition to the ICU changes, cancer patients will also see improved benefits. The daily coverage for oncology services at accredited facilities has been raised from KES 400,000 to KES 550,000. This increase of KES 150,000 is expected to significantly bolster support for those undergoing critical cancer care. “Previously, ICU coverage stood at KES 4,480, but we are pleased to announce it has now been raised to KES 28,000 per day,” Barasa added.
Barasa also addressed concerns about the overseas treatment package. Currently, the cover for overseas healthcare services is set at KES 500,000. However, she clarified that patients seeking treatment abroad must first obtain government approval. “The SHIF Act provides for the overseas purchasing of healthcare services that are not available locally,” Barasa stated, noting that the Ministry of Health and the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) are reviewing cases to expedite approvals.
Finally, the CS warned against fraudulent claims, urging patients to follow proper procedures and avoid exploiting the system for personal gain. “We have encountered cases where patients visit unaccredited facilities and request funds to be sent to personal accounts. Such practices undermine the integrity of our healthcare system,” she concluded.
