Ministry of Health urged to address gaps in healthcare transition.

The Ministry of Health is under growing pressure to address systemic failures in the roll-out of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), following a joint appeal by KELIN and FIDA-Kenya. The two health and women’s rights advocacy organizations have highlighted widespread confusion and disruptions in access to healthcare as a result of the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the SHIF under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023.

In a statement released on 18 November 2024, KELIN and FIDA-Kenya raised concerns about the lack of public awareness and operational clarity surrounding the transition. These gaps, they noted, have left millions of Kenyans, especially vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, minorities and low-income families, without access to essential health services.

Deputy Executive Director of KELIN, Hortense Minishi, emphasized that article 43 of the Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to health, including reproductive health. However, the transition to SHIF has exposed significant system weaknesses, disrupting services and deepening access inequalities.

Minishi cited alarming reports of patients being turned away, detained for unpaid bills, and disruptions in chronic disease management. She called on the Ministry of Health and SHA to implement clear operational guidelines and public education campaigns.

KELIN and FIDA-Kenya called for immediate resolution of outstanding NHIF claims to enable a smooth transition for health facilities. They also raised concerns about the future of key programs like Linda Mama, EduAfya, and HIV treatment, urging the Ministry to clarify their status under the new system.

The digitization of health records, though promising, could exclude marginalized communities without inclusive policies. The groups recommended creating robust feedback mechanisms for patients incurring out-of-pocket costs since the transition began in October.

Access to emergency care was another concern. The organizations urged the Ministry to establish clear protocols and timelines to safeguard this constitutional guarantee. They also called for the operationalization of the Social Health Insurance Dispute Resolution Tribunal to handle complaints.

The transition to SHIF must align with Universal Health Coverage (UHC) principles, reducing financial barriers and protecting vulnerable groups’ rights.

“The current challenges undermine Kenyans’ dignity and constitutional rights. We urge the Ministry of Health to act swiftly and reaffirm its commitment to equitable healthcare,” Minishi stated.