NAIROBI, Kenya – Faith-based health facilities across Kenya have issued a 14-day ultimatum to the government, demanding the settlement of outstanding claims totaling Ksh.10 billion.
If the government fails to pay, the hospitals warn they will stop treating patients under the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme, shifting instead to cash-based services.
In a statement, the hospitals revealed that the government owes them Ksh.6.8 billion in unpaid claims under the now-defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), Ksh.2.15 billion under the SHA, and Ksh.1 billion under the MAKL scheme, which covers teachers, police officers, and prison staff.
The unpaid funds have left faith-based hospitals struggling to stay afloat, leading to job losses, unpaid suppliers, and financial distress that could force some facilities to close.
The hospitals also criticized the slow processing of SHA claims, saying it mirrors the inefficiencies of the former NHIF system.
“Clinical review claims can remain stagnant for up to five months or more based on our experience to date. This is an area that requires urgent improvement,” the statement read.
Additionally, they pointed to staff shortages at SHA, saying the lack of personnel has hampered claim processing in both county and national hospitals.
They called for urgent recruitment and training to ensure smooth implementation of the new health financing system.
The hospitals are also pushing for the MAKL scheme to be integrated into SHA, arguing that this would enhance its financial sustainability.
“We are demanding immediate payment of outstanding NHIF, SHA, and MAKL debts. If not settled within 14 days, we will be forced to suspend services for beneficiaries of these schemes and only accept cash payments,” the statement warned.
The standoff puts thousands of patients who rely on faith-based hospitals at risk, raising concerns over the future of Kenya’s healthcare financing reforms.
