Only 3.1 million Kenyans have completed eligibility test for SHIF, ministry says
Ministry officials warn that those who do not undergo the test will automatically be excluded from key healthcare services such as hospital admissions.
Only 3.1 million Kenyans have completed the means test required to determine eligibility for government-subsidised healthcare under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), leaving millions uncertain about their access to medical services, according to the Ministry of Health.
The means test evaluates a household's income, employment status, and socio-economic conditions to determine whether individuals should contribute to SHIF or receive financial support.
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The process is conducted at health facilities, online platforms, and Social Health Authority branches.
Ministry officials warn that those who do not undergo the test will automatically be excluded from key healthcare services such as hospital admissions, specialist treatment, and surgery.
Instead, they will only be eligible for primary healthcare and emergency services, increasing the financial burden of seeking medical care.
"So far, we only have 3.1 million people who have done means testing, meaning [those who have not] cannot be eligible for the services offered under the Social Health Insurance Fund, which is contributory. They can only be able to access the primary healthcare services and the emergency services," said Health Director-General Patrick Amoth.
"On average, our means test results in a premium of Sh592, and we are refining the tool to more accurately reflect income. However, a challenge we face is that many registrants do not complete the entire testing process," he said.
With Kenya's population exceeding 50 million, an estimated 25 million people, many from informal employment, low-income households, and vulnerable groups still need to undergo means testing to determine their eligibility for subsidised healthcare.
The Ministry of Health estimates that 19 million people need to be registered under SHIF, with current enrolment standing at 18,985,030.
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