HOMA BAY: A free medical camp in Homa Bay has highlighted significant challenges faced by Kenyans during the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). This transition period has resulted in many patients being unable to access medical services, as both private and public health facilities demand cash payments, leaving those reliant on insurance in a difficult position.
According to Kenya News Agency, Newton Ogada, Director of Beryls Medical Centre, noted during the camp that for the past three weeks, patients have struggled to obtain medical services due to the transition issues. Health facilities are reportedly unable to access the Social Health Authority (SHA) system to verify patient details and approve treatments, forcing patients to pay for their medical expenses in cash. This situation persists despite some Kenyans having already paid their NHIF contributions through mid-next year.
Ogada emphasized the plight of insured Kenyans who, despite
being current with their contributions, are unable to receive medical care without cash payments. During the week-long medical camp, more than 4,000 individuals expressed frustration, citing the inability to access treatment due to the ongoing confusion surrounding SHA. Ogada warned that if the government does not address these bottlenecks, the country may face increased mortality rates.
Molly Ochar, the Medical Outreach Coordinator in Homa Bay, echoed these concerns, noting that the rising cost of medical care is preventing many patients from obtaining necessary treatment. She highlighted that most hospitals lack the credentials to log into the SHA system, thus necessitating cash payments from patients, which many cannot afford.
Stakeholders, including Ogada and Ochar, are urging the government to urgently resolve these issues to ensure that Kenyans can access medical services through the Social Health Insurance Fund without unnecessary financial burdens.