Lawmakers have now raised concerns over the Social Health Authority’s new health insurance scheme, highlighting what they think is wrong with it.
They cited poor services and communication, inadequate funding, unclear implementation frameworks, and citizens’ strained relations with the healthcare system, saying this had discouraged Kenyans from registering for the programme.
scheme, said John Paul Mwirigi (Igembe Central).
“It is hurting that many patients are unable to get services, including treatment and purchase of medicine, yet they are registered,” he said.
Anthony Kibagendi (Kitutu Chache) questioned how SHA was planning to address funding shortfalls and ensure greater public awareness.
“You are asking us to rally people to register, but where is the money to sustain this initiative? What measures are in place to ensure its success?” Kibagendi posed.
“There are huge pending bills inherited from NHIF, but you are not paying the facilities that were owed by NHIF.”
The complaints from MPs came despite Kimtai and Mohamed underscoring the importance of sensitising citizens on registering for SHA and on its benefits.
Addressing MPs during their ongoing mid-term retreat in Naivasha, Nakuru County, Mohamed disclosed that while Taifa Care had registered 22 million Kenyans, only four million were active, paid-up members.
The other 18 million, he said, were yet to contribute, because of poor communication, inadequate sensitisation, and financial hurdles.
He urged legislators to educate the public on the benefits of joining the programme and paying premiums based on their ability to contribute.
“We are calling on you as leaders to take this message to your constituents. Your endorsement and active involvement are critical to bridging the gap between the government and the people,” Mohamed said.
Kimtai reiterated that SHA is transformative and aimed at reducing healthcare burdens on vulnerable populations.
“This is about equity in health services. We are counting on your leadership to make this vision a reality,” he told MPs.
SHA acting CEO Robert Ingasira acknowledged challenges in communication and outreach efforts but appealed to MPs to become goodwill ambassadors.
He noted that, despite setbacks, there was room to register more Kenyans and pledged that gaps in services were being addressed.
