Teachers under the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) in Kiambu County have threatened to call a nationwide strike over ongoing challenges linked to the Social Health Authority (SHA) insurance scheme, raising fresh concerns about access to healthcare services for educators.
The teachers say they have been experiencing persistent difficulties in accessing medical services despite being registered under the SHA system, which replaced the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). They argue that delays, system inefficiencies and lack of clarity on service coverage have left many stranded when seeking treatment.
Speaking on the matter, KNUT officials in Kiambu warned that unless the issues are urgently addressed, teachers across the country could down their tools in protest, a move that would disrupt learning in public schools.
The union expressed frustration over what it termed as poor implementation of the new health insurance framework, saying members are being turned away from hospitals or forced to pay out-of-pocket for services that should be covered.
“We cannot continue working while our members are suffering and unable to access healthcare. If this is not resolved, we will have no option but to mobilise teachers nationally,” a union representative said.
Teachers further raised concerns about delays in approval of medical services, confusion over accredited health facilities and lack of proper communication from relevant authorities managing the scheme.
The standoff comes at a time when the transition from NHIF to SHA is still being implemented, with various sectors raising concerns over its effectiveness and readiness.
Education stakeholders warn that a nationwide strike could significantly disrupt the school calendar, affecting millions of learners if a resolution is not reached in time.
KNUT is now calling on the government and relevant agencies to urgently streamline the system, ensure smooth access to healthcare services, and address all operational challenges affecting teachers.
The union insists that healthcare is a critical component of employee welfare and should not be compromised, especially for teachers who serve in demanding environments across the country.
As pressure mounts, attention now shifts to how quickly the government will respond to the grievances raised, with the possibility of industrial action looming large over the education sector.
 in Kiambu County have threatened to call a nationwide strike over ongoing challenges linked to the Social Health Authority (SHA) insurance scheme, raising fresh concerns about access to healthcare services for educators.){kind=link}