As the clock ticks down to October 1, 2024, the Ministry of Health has issued important guidelines for employers regarding the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Authority (SHA). This significant shift aims to streamline health coverage for all Kenyans and is an essential step towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
What’s Changing?
Effective October 1, 2024, the NHIF will cease operations, making way for the SHA to manage the newly established Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). Each Kenyan citizen, along with their dependents, is required by law to register as a member of the SHA.
This move emphasizes the Kenyan government’s commitment to healthcare access for all, despite the recent legal challenges surrounding the SHA’s establishment.
Key Employer Responsibilities
Employers play a crucial role in this transition. They must ensure that all employees are registered with the SHA before the deadline.
The Ministry of Health has provided a dedicated SHA Employer Portal at https://sha.go.ke for this purpose, where employers can manage contributions and registrations.
Portal Features:
- Employee Registration: Add employees and their dependents to the SHA system.
- Contribution Remittance: Pay SHIF contributions directly to the SHA.
- Reporting: Generate necessary reports and statements for record-keeping.
Step-by-Step Guidance for Employers
- Create an Account: Employers must first visit the SHA website and set up an account.
- Verify Your Account: After creating an account, follow the guidelines to verify it.
- Register Employees: Input the necessary employee details into the system.
- Remit Contributions: Use the portal to ensure contributions are paid on time.
Important Dates to Remember
- Final NHIF Admission: September 30, 2024
- Transition Date to SHA: October 1, 2024
- Contribution Crediting: Payments made on or before October 9, 2024, will go to NHIF, while those made from November 9, 2024, onwards will be credited to SHA.
Legal Landscape
It’s essential to note that the SHA’s implementation comes amidst a legal backdrop. A recent court ruling found several sections of the Social Health Insurance Act unconstitutional, including stipulations requiring proof of compliance with contributions for healthcare access. The government has been given 120 days to address these legal breaches, which could impact the timeline for the SHA’s full rollout
For any questions or assistance during this transition, employers are encouraged to consult the SHA website or reach out to the SHA support team directly. Ensuring a seamless switch from NHIF to SHA is not just a regulatory requirement; it’s a commitment to the health and wellbeing of all Kenyans.
