By Peter Ochieng
Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Health Susan Nakhumicha on Monday commenced the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) asset verification exercise, marking a significant step towards the impending transition to the Social Health Authority (SHA).
The event signaled the government’s commitment to ensuring a seamless transition process.
CS Nakhumicha emphasized the importance of the verification exercise in guaranteeing an effective transition, without compromising service delivery.
She said the process should not inconvenient NHIF beneficiaries, except for the anticipated improvement in service quality.
The verification aims to identify assets and liabilities held by NHIF across its headquarters, branches, satellites, and various Huduma Centers before their transfer to SHA.
“This meticulous process not only ensures a smooth transition but also upholds accountability and transparency standards,” stated the CS.
Acknowledging the dedicated efforts of the Transition Committee and collaborating ministries, the CS underscored the pivotal role of health financing in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), singling out enactment of the Social Health Insurance Act and the establishment of funds under SHA as key milestones towards this goal.
Furthermore, she commended the Ministry of Health for expediting the payment of pending bills for NHIF, ensuring continued access to healthcare services for all citizens.
She reiterated the government’s pledge to have SHA operational by July 1st, with household registration slated to commence this month.
“NHIF services remain uninterrupted during this transition period,” she assured Kenyans.
Every person resident in Kenya is required to apply for registration to the Authority, as a member of the Social Health Authority.
The application must be accompanied by a copy of the national identification document or any other approved document, and for children without identification, documentation provided by the state department responsible for social protection.
The Social Health Authority will covers integrated preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative health services at level 4, 5, and 6 health facilities.
This includes emergency services, critical care services beyond the benefits in the essential healthcare benefits package, treatment and management of chronic illnesses beyond the benefits in the essential healthcare benefits package of the Social Health Authority.