Health

Why SHIF is replacing NHIF - CS Nakhumicha

Health CS Wafula Nakhumicha at a past event. (X/Wafula Nakhumicha)

By Amina Wako | Thursday, January 25, 2024

She says NHIF system was plagued by a myriad fundamental flaws that made it an unviable medical cover option for Kenyans

Health Cabinet Secretary Wafula Nakhumicha on Wednesday night explained why the National Health Insurance Fund is being replaced with the Social Health Insurance Fund.

Speaking during a town hall interview on Citizen TV, CS Nakhumicha highlighted the fundamental flaws that plagued the NHIF system, making it an unsustainable medical cover option for many Kenyans. According to the Health CS, the new system emphasises a shift from a curative model to a preventive and promotional approach.

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“The system that we have had (NHIF) predominantly has been curative in nature; that it waits for you to get sick, then it treats you. What we’re moving to is preventive and promotional in nature, so that we try as much as possible to prevent citizens from getting sick,” she explained.

CS Nakhumicha also addressed the structural issues with NHIF, noting that it catered primarily to salaried Kenyans, leaving out unemployed citizens or those without a regular income. The government plans to rectify this issue by implementing SHIF, which will identify and provide health coverage for every Kenyan.

“The problem with NHIF is that it has a structural problem; it was put in place largely to cater for salaried people. So what we have done with SHIF is to ensure that, first of all, we’re able to identify every Kenyan,” she said.

The CS further pointed out that NHIF had limitations in coverage, especially for critical illnesses like cancer, leaving patients with substantial medical bills. On the other hand, SHIF aims to rectify this by offering comprehensive coverage from the beginning to the end of any disease.

“The other problem is that NHIF did not cover 100 per cent. What we’re doing in the new law is that there are no limits; that means that your disease is covered from the beginning to the end,” she said.

The CS also emphasised the inclusion of congenital conditions and screening in SHIF, areas where NHIF fell short. Under the new system, the government aims to provide coverage for Kenyans from birth, acknowledging that they did not choose to be born with certain illnesses.

“We have congenital conditions that are not covered by NHIF, even with private insurance. But we’re saying these are Kenyans, and they did not choose to be born with certain illnesses, so now we have a package that will take care even of congenital conditions,” she said.

She further noted that while the NHIF does not cover screening, Kenyans would be able to access this service after the launch of SHIF in March.

"But under SHIF, we are covering screening and wellness so that people can check themselves and ensure that they are living well.”