Principal Secretary (PS) for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni has assured Kenyans that their National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) monies will not be lost.

Speaking at a local interview on Wednesday morning, PS Muthoni clarified that no funds would be lost in the transition process to the newly formed Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

“Even if you are registered under NHIF you need to register afresh with the Social Health Authority. What I know is that many people especially hospitals who are owed by NHIF are asking whether they will be paid,” she stated.

The Ministry of Health official noted that such issues will be handled by the transition committee chaired by Kap-Kirwok R. Jason.

Other committee members are; Dr. Daniel Mwai, Dr. Kipruto Chermusoi Chesang, Dr. Jacinta N. Wasike, Gladys Wambui Mburu, Stephen Kaboro Mbugua, Dr. Elizabeth N. Wangia, Christopher Leparan Tialal, Dr. Jacob Otachi Orina, and Dr. Stanley Bii.

“This committee is looking for an end to end transition. When you close NHIF it does not mean you throw away the liability. it means any funds that are there will be converted into SHA.

“Equally if there is any hospital that has not been paid, they will be paid by the Social Health Authority. There is nobody who is going to be locked out. That is why there is a transition committee to give guidance,” PS Muthoni added.

The newly formed SHA is headed by Timothy Olweny (Chairman) and Elijah Wachira as the acting Chief Executive Officer ( CEO).

Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Susan Nakhumicha last week announced that registration of SHA will kick off on March 8.

A deduction of 2.75% on monthly income will also take effect in March, offering reprieve to some whose deductions will reduce and pain for those whose contribution will increase.