The Social Health Authority (SHA), a newly launched arm of Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) initiative, has delivered healthcare services worth KES 1.5 billion within its first month of operation. This achievement highlights the SHA’s commitment to enhancing healthcare access across Kenya.
According to the Ministry of Health, SHA has allocated KES 250 million to dialysis care packages, KES 220 million to cancer treatments, KES 175 million to maternal and infant health, and KES 103 million toward mental wellness services, a new category within SHA’s offerings. These services aim to support diverse health needs, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions and maternal health requirements.
Since SHA’s rollout on October 1, 2024, the authority has registered significant growth in membership. Approximately 4 million new members have joined, representing a 44 percent increase and raising SHA’s total membership to 13 million Kenyans. This surge in enrollment has led to a substantial uptick in healthcare visits, with SHA reporting over 10,600 maternal and child care visits, including both normal and cesarean deliveries. Outpatient and inpatient visits have also increased, with 21,000 outpatient and 28,000 inpatient services provided to date.
In addressing the needs of kidney patients, SHA facilitated over 15,800 dialysis sessions within the month. Mental wellness services, introduced under the SHA, have also seen utilization, with 265 recorded visits, marking progress in mental health support under UHC.
The UHC framework has expanded SHA’s network to encompass a wide range of healthcare facilities, enhancing access to primary healthcare services. The system now includes 4,520 public facilities, 2,540 private clinics, 549 faith-based centers, 17 community-based facilities, and 76 additional health providers nationwide.
The Ministry of Health reassured SHA members of prompt access to healthcare, highlighting that there are no waiting periods for new enrollees. “SHA members can access services immediately, providing essential care when it is most needed,” the Ministry noted.
SHA’s primary healthcare services, available at level 2 and level 3 facilities nationwide, offer preventive and basic care at no extra cost, providing critical support for low-income families and residents in underserved areas
