Wed Sep 25 04:23:48 UTC 2024: ## Kenya’s New Social Health Authority: A Comprehensive Guide

**Nairobi, Kenya** – A major healthcare shift is set to take place in Kenya, with the **Social Health Authority (SHA)** replacing the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) on October 1, 2024. This new system will oversee three separate funds aimed at providing universal healthcare access for all Kenyans.

**Three Pillars of the SHA:**

* **Primary Healthcare Fund (PHF):** This fund, funded entirely by the government, will provide free primary healthcare services at dispensaries, health centers, and other level 2 and 3 facilities. Individuals can access these services directly or through referrals from community health promoters.
* **Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF):** This fund, the most publicized aspect of the SHA, will cover inpatient services at level 4, 5, and 6 facilities for those referred by the PHF. Contributions are 2.75% of monthly or yearly income for salaried and informal sectors respectively. It covers a wide range of services, including maternity, surgery, and chronic illness management, with a limit of 180 days per household.
* **Emergency Chronic and Critical Illness Fund:** This fund covers costs associated with managing chronic illnesses after exhausting SHIF benefits and also handles emergency treatment.

**Who Contributes and How?**

The SHA is funded by all Kenyan households, non-Kenyan residents (living in Kenya for over 12 months), the national and county governments, and any other employers or donors.

* **Salaried Employees:** Contributions are deducted monthly from salaries.
* **Informal Sector:** Contributions are paid annually, determined through a means testing tool based on expenditure patterns.
* **Spouses:** Both spouses are required to contribute based on their individual incomes.
* **Minimum Contribution:** A base premium of Sh300 per month is required for those falling below the contribution threshold, with government subsidies available for those who qualify.

**Important Notes:**

* The means testing tool will determine contributions for the informal sector, with payments made after the assessment.
* Individuals must notify the SHA of any income changes to ensure accurate contribution rates.
* The PHF and Emergency Chronic and Critical Illness Fund are publicly funded, while direct contributions are made only to the SHIF.
* Services will remain accessible even if an individual loses employment, as long as new contribution arrangements are made.

**The SHA marks a significant step towards universal healthcare access in Kenya, offering a comprehensive and accessible system for all citizens.**

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