NAIROBI, Kenya— Today marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s healthcare system as the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) officially launches, replacing the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) that expired on June 30, 2024.
Health officials say the transition to SHIF represents a major shift in how Kenyans will access and benefit from health insurance.
Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha announced that all Kenyans must register afresh to benefit from SHIF.
“Civil servants will continue enjoying the existing NHIF contributions and benefits until the transition to SHIF is complete,” she assured.
Registration can be done via a self-registration USSD code *147# or through the website http://sha.go.ke.
Additionally, Community Health Promoters and NHIF offices, along with other designated registration points, are available to assist in the process.
“The SHIF Act mandates the design and publication of a new benefit package,” Nakhumicha stated.
This package, developed through a consultative process and recently opened for public participation and stakeholder input, is set to undergo national validation and formal gazettement before the rollout.
Nakhumicha emphasized that the SHIF registration process is free of charge. The Transition Committee, responsible for facilitating the shift from NHIF to SHIF, has suggested that the former continue operating while SHIF is launched in phases.
This phased approach is necessary as some key components required to support the new health authority are still being finalized.
The minutes from a recent committee meeting highlighted the financial implications of continuing to use NHIF systems past July 1, noting that licenses and contracts for the NHIF system would need renewal.
The SHIF requires the use of a secure, interoperable, and responsive technology for digitization and processes, ensuring smooth registration, member identification, contributions, facility empanelment, contract execution, notification, claims management, and settlement.
The Ministry of Health has been actively preparing key messages and engaging with the media and other stakeholders.
The public participation report for the proposed SHIF benefit package was received last week, and amendments are currently being made.
The digitized ICT template for developing the package has been completed, but the SHIF board must incorporate suggested changes and gazette the new benefit package.
The transition committee, chaired by KapKirwok Jason, includes members Dr. Daniel Mwai, Dr. Kipruto Chesang, Jacinta Wasike, Elizabeth Wangia, Jacob Otachi, Stanley Bii, Gladys Wambui, Stephen Kaboro, and Christopher Leparan.
They are tasked with addressing issues in the alternative plan due to factors not ready for the July 1 launch, which includes staggered implementation of the benefits package.
Communication strategies, including identifying spokespersons, are also being formalized.
