Government to review double medical insurance deductions for teachers, PS Bitok says

Teachers could soon see changes to their pay slips after the government announced plans to address the double deduction of medical insurance premiums.

Principal Secretary for Basic Education, Julius Bitok, revealed the plan on Monday, August 11, during a consultative meeting with head teachers of public schools in Nairobi. The forum marked the first in a series of nationwide engagements aimed at tackling challenges in the education sector.

Bitok acknowledged that teachers are currently paying both the Social Health Authority (SHA) levy and premiums to a private medical insurer, despite some still being forced to pay out of pocket in hospitals.

“It is not right that teachers are paying twice for medical insurance. That is not the government’s position. We are engaging relevant stakeholders so that teachers can benefit from a reliable special scheme like civil servants and other specialized cadres,” Bitok said.

The PS added that the Ministry of Education would work with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and teachers’ unions to review the scheme.

Current Teachers’ Medical Scheme

Under SHA rules, Kenyans contribute 2.75 per cent of their gross or household income, with a minimum monthly payment of Ksh300.

For teachers, the existing private scheme covers one spouse and up to four children, offering inpatient, outpatient, maternity, optical, dental, group life, and last expense funeral benefits. Members can access services without a physical card by using payroll or biometric verification at accredited facilities.

Other Issues in Education

Beyond the insurance matter, teachers raised concerns over delayed capitation, inadequate school infrastructure, and slow promotions.

Bitok said the government will visit each county for frank discussions with school heads, noting, “Head teachers, as hands-on managers, have unique insights into the real state of our education system.”

Teachers also called for faster pension payments for retirees and the harmonization of roles between TSC and Ministry of Education officers in school inspections.