The Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) has disbursed Sh22 billion out of the Sh31.5 billion collected in claims to healthcare facilities across the country. The funds, aimed at alleviating financial constraints in hospitals, were released following a meeting of the National Development Implementation Committee (NDIC), chaired by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi at the Kenya School of Government.
According to NDIC, the allocation was distributed among different categories of healthcare providers. Faith-based hospitals received Sh3.5 billion, public hospitals were allocated Sh7.2 billion, while private healthcare providers received the largest share of Sh11.4 billion. Additionally, Sh8.6 billion was used to clear debts inherited from the defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), with Taifa Care contributing Sh8,631,145,153.00 towards settling these outstanding obligations.
The government has emphasized that the timely settlement of claims will ensure continuity of healthcare services and reduce financial burdens on hospitals. The NDIC also noted that SHIF has successfully registered over 20.6 million Kenyans, with 16.6 million actively enrolled. A further four million individuals have undergone means testing to determine their eligibility for financial assistance.
In line with President William Ruto’s directive last month, hospitals with claims amounting to Sh10 million or less are being paid in full. This move is expected to benefit 91% of all medical facilities previously contracted under NHIF, ensuring that smaller hospitals remain operational and continue providing essential services.
Pending hospital bills have long been a significant challenge in the healthcare sector, leading to strained relationships between providers and the government. Some private hospitals had previously threatened to stop offering services to patients relying entirely on SHIF for treatment. However, following discussions with government officials, these hospitals rescinded their decision, ensuring uninterrupted healthcare access for affected patients.
NDIC reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing efficiency in processing claims to prevent service disruptions and ensure funds are allocated where they are most needed. “The government is dedicated to ensuring every Kenyan receives quality healthcare without financial strain,” the committee stated.
With these latest disbursements, the government seeks to reinforce its commitment to universal health coverage and financial sustainability within the healthcare system.
