Health Justice Advocates Call for Rights-Based Framework in SHIF Rollout
In picture, members of Kenya advocates for health and women’s rights, during a press briefing in Nairobi.
By Aoma Keziah,
Kenya advocates for health and women’s rights, have raised concerns over the ongoing transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023. The two organizations have urged the Ministry of Health to adopt a rights-based approach to ensure equitable and affordable healthcare access for all Kenyans.
Citing Article 43 of the Kenyan Constitution, which guarantees the right to health, including reproductive health, the organizations pointed out systemic gaps and challenges that have emerged during the transition. They noted that these issues, disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, minorities, and low-income families.
On the issue of Systemic Challenges in SHIF Rollout, they said that the transition to SHIF has been marked by confusion, inadequate preparedness, and lack of public awareness. Many Kenyans remain uninformed about changes to their healthcare access. Reports of healthcare facilities refusing to offer services, detaining patients over unpaid bills, and disruptions to chronic illness treatments have become prevalent.
They further highlighted the lack of operational guidelines and public sensitization campaigns as key barriers to a smooth transition, citing that here is an urgent need for clear communication strategies targeting healthcare professionals, facilities, and the public to restore trust and transparency in the system.
On Unresolved NHIF Claims and Financial Strain, they stated that the delay in settling NHIF claims has exacerbated the financial strain on healthcare facilities and patients alike. Many Kenyans have been forced to pay out-of-pocket expenses, plunging households into economic distress, calling on the Ministry of Health to settle pending claims and provide clarity on critical schemes such as Linda Mama, EduAfya, and HIV care services, which remain inadequately addressed under the new system.
On matters Digitalization and Inclusivity Concerns, they said that the digitalization of health records under SHIF promises efficiency, KELIN and FIDA-Kenya warned of potential exclusion of marginalized groups due to the digital divide. They urged the Social Health Authority (SHA) to implement inclusive systems that ensure no one is left behind.
Additionally, the organizations called for the establishment of feedback mechanisms and reimbursement systems for patients forced to make out-of-pocket payments since the rollout of SHIF in October.
The advocacy groups stressed the need to safeguard emergency healthcare access, guaranteed under Article 43(2) of the Constitution. They also highlighted the need to address staffing shortages within SHA and establish a Social Health Insurance Dispute Resolution Tribunal to resolve grievances efficiently.
The organizations also emphasized that the transition to SHIF must align with Universal Health Coverage principles by reducing financial barriers, ensuring adequate resources, and protecting the rights of vulnerable populations stating that the ongoing transition falls short of the dignity enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, urging the Ministry of Health to act swiftly to resolve these critical issues.
In conclusion, the two organizations reiterated their commitment to a society where every individual’s right to health is upheld, calling on the government to reaffirm its dedication to constitutional provisions and prioritize the well-being of all Kenyans.
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The Mt Kenya Times 