As Kenyans voice their dissatisfaction with the reportedly slow, absent, or inadequate services from the Social Health Authority, it is increasingly evident that many Kenyans are lax in completing the registration process, leading to difficulties in accessing services at numerous hospitals.
This is mainly observed among individuals who transitioned to the new health scheme from the now-defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
The new authority mandates that these members re-register to ensure their information is accurately recorded in the updated system.
Robert Ingasira, the Acting CEO of SHA, addressed confusion among individuals about the need for registration.
“Many former NHIF members are uncertain if they should register with SHA or if their details have been automatically transferred. Unfortunately, when seeking care, they often discover their information is missing from the SHA system, leading to delays in accessing services,” Ingasira stated.
As reported by The Standard Media, Ingasira emphasized that although data has been transferred from NHIF to SHA, individuals are still required to verify their details by completing the registration process.
He further noted that the authority recognized a significant gap in the lack of information about SHA tariff benefits, alongside the absence of identification documents, especially in ASAL (Arid and Semi-Arid Lands) counties.
The lack of these documents has contributed to low registration turnout in these regions.
“Some counties encounter distinct challenges. For example, a significant problem in ASAL counties is the absence of identification documents. Many residents lack ID cards or birth certificates. Consequently, these areas fall short of the anticipated registration figures”, he noted.
He mentioned that the authority is working with relevant ministries to help individuals in these counties acquire the necessary documents to register with the scheme.
During data confirmation and updates, contributors must verify and update details for their household members, including spouses and children, to ensure the information is accurate and complete.
For those in informal employment, the system performs a means-testing process to assess their monthly contribution to the scheme, which is limited to 2.75 percent of their earnings.
“When you register, you are eligible to access services at Level 2, 3, and 4 facilities, which offer primary healthcare. If a referral to Level 4, 5, or 6 facilities is required to benefit from the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), you must have made the necessary contributions,” explained Ingasira.
