New health plan a win for all Kenyans, says Nakhumicha

Health CS Susan Nakhumicha. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha has welcomed the decision by the Court of Appeal to allow the roll-out of the Social Health scheme, saying it is a step towards ensuring better healthcare systems in Kenya.

"I applaud the Court of Appeal for its swift decision greenlighting the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). This opens the door for a resilient healthcare system that perfectly aligns with the laid-out strategies for the enrollment of UHC," said the CS in a statement on Saturday.

The Fund, when implanted, will pave the way for Kenyans from all walks of life to access healthcare services without discrimination.

Nakhumicha also noted that the verdict by the court now allows Kenyans to contribute to the Social Health scheme following the suspension of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

"The ruling instills confidence amongst millions of Kenyans who rely on the insurance fund to access medical services," she said.

The Appellate Court lifted orders barring the government from rolling out the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Act yesterday.

Judges noted that there is a real and present danger to the health rights of countless citizens who are not parties to the litigation pending before the courts.

Court however suspended some sections of the Act, pending the hearing and determination of the appeal by the CS.

The court's decision now means Kenyans will pay 2.75 per cent to the new health scheme.

Employed persons will pay 2.75 per cent of their gross salary to the kitty, while non-salaried Kenyans will pay 2.75 per cent of their earnings to the medical kitty.