Kenyans Expressed their Confusion on the New Health Insurance System

The transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) has caused confusion among many Kenyans. The new health insurance system, SHIF, introduced by President Ruto’s administration to cover all Kenyans nationwide, was implemented at the start of October. SHIF has been transferring Kenyans’ data from NHIF, whose operations ended on 30th September.

Kenyans have expressed their concern about the process of transferring their data from NHIF to SHIF. “My concern is on transferring my contribution from NHIF to SHIF, I should not start afresh,” a Kiambu resident said.

 Another notable concern is on lack of civic education for many Kenyans who struggle to understand the difference between SHIF and SHA and how it will operate. “We need to understand the new model and how it operates. We are really confused on this transition.” A Kenyan said. Also, Kenyans expressed concern about the coverage of the new model, citing that it should be comprehensive and cover all diseases without a hitch.

Kenyans have urged elected leaders and relevant authorities to come out and explain what will be the fate of their NHIF contribution. “We need to know where our funds will go, will we get refunded or will our premiums be transferred to SHIF? We need to know,” a resident asked.

The Social Health Insurance Fund is the body that will be responsible for giving health coverage to Kenyans, While the Social Health Authority (SHA) is the regulatory body that will oversee healthcare services and policies.

                                                                                                                        By Mwaura Kimani