Health CS Nakhumicha Unveils Expanded Access to Social Health Package

Nairobi, Kenya - 7th February 2024 - Health Cabinet Secretary Nakhumicha S. Wafula unveiled ambitious plans for the Social Health Authority (SHA) aimed at providing efficient, affordable, and non-discriminatory healthcare services to all Kenyans, a crucial step towards achieving Universal Health Coverage.

Speaking at a Nairobi Hotel during the joint Committee for Health, Nakhumicha, accompanied by Mary Muthoni, the Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, emphasized SHA's commitment to ensuring unrestricted access to healthcare packages, surpassing the offerings of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

Addressing concerns raised by Nyamira Senator Prof Okong'o Omogeni regarding the criteria for determining the maximum contribution to the Social Health Insurance Fund, the CS highlighted the significant role of actuaries from both the Ministry of Health and NHIF in conducting a comprehensive analysis. 

She assured legislators that the Act's implementation would effectively address previous challenges in fundraising for medical bills.

Furthermore, Nakhumicha stated that the final document, reflecting the majority views of Kenyans obtained through nationwide public participation exercises, would guarantee adequate funding for healthcare.

She expressed gratitude to lawmakers for passing the four bills and assured them that once implemented, constituents would not bear the burden of medical bills.

Nakhumicha also announced the upcoming commencement of SHA registration in the first week of March, with a 90-day process dedicated to refining systems and parameters, aiming for perfection.