The Ministry of Health has announced the successful launch of the Social Health Authority (SHA), which officially began operations on October 1, 2024. In a statement issued on October 3, 2024, the Ministry expressed gratitude to Kenyans for their cooperation during the early stages of the rollout and praised the entire healthcare system for its support in ensuring a smooth transition.
The SHA is designed to provide affordable and comprehensive healthcare for all Kenyans. According to the Ministry, the rollout of the new authority is a “continuous process” and has been progressing well despite some minor challenges, which the Ministry is working to address. The statement emphasized that all healthcare providers must ensure that “everyone who visits a hospital receives the necessary services,” and reassured the public that services at primary healthcare facilities (Levels 1-3) will remain free of charge.
To address concerns raised by the public, the Ministry clarified several key issues. First, all patients admitted under the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) before September 30, 2024, will continue to be discharged using the NHIF system, ensuring that no patient remains detained in healthcare facilities. Additionally, the transition of NHIF members into SHA has been carried out in accordance with legal notice 147 of 2024. The Ministry reassured members that they were automatically enrolled, and encouraged them to verify and update their profiles, as well as add dependents through the official SHA channels.
In terms of service delivery, the Ministry noted that its technical teams are working around the clock to manage the increased user demand and ensure smoother service provision under the SHA. The Ministry emphasized that “no disruptions in services” are expected during this transition, and services will be enhanced under SHA compared to NHIF, ensuring better access to healthcare at all levels.
The Ministry also highlighted that over 60% of private healthcare facilities have been contracted by SHA to provide health services, in addition to public facilities. The Ministry is committed to keeping the public informed, and an updated list of contracted facilities is available on the SHA website, which will be continuously updated as changes are made.
In its statement, the Ministry committed to enhancing public communication efforts, particularly as it “embraces this new chapter with SHA.” This will include increasing education efforts through Community Health Promoters (CHPs), alongside members of the National and County Government administrations and healthcare workers. The Ministry also encouraged citizens to contact their toll-free customer care number, 719, for any inquiries regarding SHA services.
In closing, the Ministry affirmed its dedication to providing “transparent, accessible, and affordable healthcare for all Kenyans,” and encouraged the public to stay informed by engaging through official communication channels for further clarifications or updates.
