Today our attention is drawn to the apparent rush by government to begin contributions to the yet to be rolled out new Social Health Insurance Fund.
The move raises serious concerns about the government’s priorities and its commitment to the welfare of citizens.
While transitioning from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to SHIF may indeed be necessary to address flaws in the previous system and move towards a more universal healthcare approach, the manner in which it is being executed seems to prioritize financial collection over ensuring proper structures and understanding among the populace.
The decision to begin deductions this month from workers’ salaries for the new scheme, several months before the expected rollout out, tentatively in July, is troubling.
Cabinet Secretary for Health Susan Nakhumicha’s announcement of imminent deductions without a corresponding registration process indicates a disjointed approach to healthcare reform.
The lack of clarity and information surrounding the transition to SHIF leaves many Kenyans in the dark about what the changes entail beyond the mandatory 2.75% deduction from their incomes.
This lack of awareness could lead to confusion and distrust among citizens, undermining the effectiveness of the new system.
What happens to NHIF for the remaining few months? Over 400 private hospitals are already declining NHIF cards due to non-payment of claims.
This has left a majority of citizens who are already paying for medical cover without access to the services. The situation highlights disconnect between policy objectives and practical implementation.
In essence, while the transition to SHIF may hold promise for improving healthcare accessibility and quality, the government must prioritize transparency, public awareness, and the establishment of proper structures to ensure its success.
Rushing to collect contributions without adequate groundwork risks undermining the very objectives the new scheme aims to achieve.
Copy by Fred Indimuli- host Morning Cafe show
