The government has released Ksh 9 billion to the Social Health Authority (SHA) to address outstanding bills incurred by healthcare facilities under the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF).
The move comes 29 days after the rollout of SHA.
According to Principal Secretary for Medical Services Mr. Harry Kimtai, the funds will be disbursed to facilities by the end of this week.
He added that this will include Ksh 1 billion allocated for the Linda Mama program to secure free maternal healthcare.
“The government remains committed to ensuring success of SHA. I can confirm here that by end of this week the money shall have been disbursed to all the facilities,” he stated.
The PS was speaking in Nakuru on Tuesday October 29, 2024 during the inauguration of the Rift Region Multi-Sectoral Committee.
The Committeeh includes County Executive Committees (CECs) and County Commissioners from Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, West Pokot, Uasin Gishu, Baringo, Turkana, Narok, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Samburu, Elgeyo, and Nakuru.
The committee is tasked with steering registration efforts for SHA in the regions.
Kimtai emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to timely claim payments, now monitored daily and capped at a 90-day processing period to enhance transparency.
“We’re committed to addressing challenges to ensure no patient is turned away,” he said.
He encouraged county governments to increase public awareness, registration, and the identification of indigent citizens to expand healthcare coverage.
The PS also called on media to help Kenyans understand SHA by highlighting key balanced stories.
“Let the members of Fourth Estate help in creating awareness about this program that means good for all,” he stated.
Meanwhile, in support of SHA’s rollout, the government has signed 26 agreements with the Council of Governors (CoG) to enhance medical equipment services in public facilities and has deployed 70 technical officers to assist county healthcare facilities.
According to PS Kimtai, Counties must take ownership to drive the initiative effectively.
He added that currently no patient should be denied services in facilities.
