The Ministry of Health has announced that the Social Health Authority (SHA) claims system is now fully operational, with over 12.6 million Kenyans having registered for the new medical scheme.
In a statement on Friday, Medical Services Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai acknowledged that while the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to SHA has faced some challenges, efforts are being made to ensure a seamless process.
“We are pleased to confirm that the SHA claims system is fully operational,” Kimtai stated, marking a significant achievement in the new healthcare framework.
He thanked the public for their patience and cooperation during this transition.
Training sessions for healthcare facilities on how to utilize the claims portal began on Friday at 3 PM and will continue throughout the coming week.
This initiative aims to equip health providers with the skills necessary to navigate the new system effectively, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery.
Kimtai reported that 232 out of 353 renal and oncology providers have committed to offering services under SHA, and this list will be published online.
He emphasized that no pre-authorization is required for NHIF members transitioning to SHA who seek renal and oncology care.
“Registration is ongoing nationwide, with hospitals providing information and assisting the public in prompt registration.
Beneficiaries can easily self-register by dialing *147# or visiting the SHA website.
Community health promoters and designated registration points are also available for support,” he added.
Furthermore, Kimtai assured that patient data will be securely managed through the National Health Information Exchange (NHIE), in line with the Data Protection Act No. 24 of 2019.
He noted that former NHIF members will have their contributions transferred to the SHA system.
A means-testing instrument will be integrated into the system to determine contributions for non-salaried members.
Currently, the contracting process with healthcare providers is ongoing, and all public health facilities, along with 1,577 private and faith-based health facilities, have signed contracts with SHA.
Health facilities have been instructed to continue providing services during this transition period.
