New insurance plan targets healthcare gaps for Kenyan women

From left: Sasa Doctor CEO  Francis Osiemo, Britam Connect Head of Innovation Liza Maru, Malipo Circles Chief Executive Officer Erick Oyugi  and  Inclusivity Solutions  Head of Marketing Wangechi Mathenge during the launch of“Hospicash + Telehealth” cover in Nairobi. [ David Njaaga, Standard]

A new insurance product aimed at easing the dual health and financial burden on Kenyan women has been launched.

The “Hospicash + Telehealth” cover was unveiled on Tuesday, July 29, in Nairobi through a partnership between Malipo Circles, Britam Connect, Inclusivity Solutions and Sasa Doctor.

The product combines daily cash payouts during hospital stays with weekly phone consultations and annual medical check-ups.

 It is being rolled out through Malipo Circles' national network of more than 10,000 community savings groups, known as chamas.

Malipo Circles Chief Executive Officer Erick Oyugi explained that the cover is tailored for women in low-income and informal settings who are often excluded from mainstream insurance.

“Women face tough choices when they fall sick. They either go untreated or lose income if they take time off,” observed Oyugi, adding,  “This product gives them a cushion for both health care and finances.”

Liza Maru, Head of Innovation at Britam Connect, noted that the package aims to reduce out-of-pocket expenses during illness while promoting preventive care.

“Many women are forced to use savings or loans during hospitalisation. This cover provides daily cash to ease that burden and connects them with doctors remotely every week,” she explained.

Wangechi Mathenge, Head of Marketing at Inclusivity Solutions, representing the CEO, pointed out that the digital-first model has allowed for reduced premiums and simple enrolment.

“We are using simple tech to keep it affordable and accessible,” she stated.

“Women can enrol through their chama leaders using a mobile phone.”

The product also includes health education modules to improve awareness and early intervention.

Its launch comes amid growing concern over gaps in women’s access to affordable health care, especially for those working without formal contracts or employer benefits.

The partners intend to scale the service across the country and monitor its long-term impact on women’s health and household income.