The Social Health Authority now says up to Sh3.7 billion has been disbursed to health facilities, with Sh1.35 billion allocated for primary health facilities.
SHA acting CEO Robert Ingasira said more funds will be disbursed to cater for NHIF claims and the Linda Mama Programme.
“This is a moving figure that grows daily as claims progress through stages. We’ve already disbursed Sh1.35 billion for primary health and are finalising payments for claims under the SHA framework,” he said.
He also announced addition of Level Four health facilities to provide primary health services. “To ease pressure, we allowed select Level 4 hospitals to offer primary healthcare services, as provided for in the Act. This has enabled more Kenyans to access primary healthcare services across the country,” said Mr Ingasira.
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He unveiled a toll free number (0800 720 601) for the public to reach out for assistance. “We’re committed to ensuring no one is denied healthcare due to inability to pay,” he added
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Questions from journalists during the briefing revealed concerns about service limitations, prepayment transitions, and treatment for terminally ill patients. Ingasira acknowledged that limitations on services are tied to tariffs and packages rolled out on October 1. “We have not restricted hospitals from offering services, but tariffs under SHA framework apply,” he said.
For Kenyans with prepaid premiums under NHIF beyond September, reconciliations are underway to credit their SHA accounts. Terminally ill patients can also access medication and treatment under the Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund.
Ingasira also addressed treatment abroad, noting that SHA is identifying facilities for such cases. “We expect this to be finalised within six months,” he said. He said UHC is a transformative initiative designed to benefit all Kenyans, regardless of socio-economic status. “Universal Health Care is for everyone,” said Ingasira. “It’s not just a name—it’s a commitment to include every Kenyan in this journey.”
On the controversy surrounding involvement of a consortium of three companies, Ingasira admitted that a contract involving the said consortium and SHA, indeed exists.
"The Ministry of Health, and I think the PS has responded to this before, signed a contract with a group led by Safaricom, Apeiro LTD, and Konvergenz Network Solutions,” he said.