DAP-K backs Gachagua’s remarks on SHA nearing collapse
By Faith Lagat, April 3, 2026The Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) has raised concerns over the Social Health Authority (SHA), claiming that several hospitals have started suspending the cover.
In a post on Friday, April 3, 2026, the party shared a notice indicating that one facility had informed patients that it would stop offering services to SHA patients due to pending issues with the insurer.
“With the imminent collapse of SHA, hospitals have started to suspend health services under SHA. Just as Rigathi Gachagua said. Kenyans are advised to seek alternative choice for medical care,” the party stated.
Hospital suspends SHA services
According to the notice shared by Eugene Wamalwa-led party, the facility announced the immediate suspension of services to patients using the SHA cover.
“This is to inform all clients that effective 03rd April 2026, we have temporarily suspended offering services under SHA Insurance due to pending issues with the insurer.”
The management advised clients under SHA to seek services from other accredited facilities within the region while efforts are made to resolve the matter.
According to the notice, critically ill patients already admitted to the hospital would continue receiving care while arrangements are made to ensure continuity of treatment.
The hospital also indicated that all services would be offered strictly on a cash basis going forward. Cash-paying clients and patients using other insurance covers will continue receiving services as usual.
SHA debate intensifies
The development comes amid ongoing debate over the implementation of SHA, which replaced the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) as part of the government’s universal health coverage reforms.
Some health facilities across the country have previously raised concerns over delayed reimbursements and operational challenges associated with the new system.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has also raised concerns about the programme, claiming the scheme could collapse if outstanding payments to hospitals are not addressed.
Government response
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale earlier dismissed the claims surrounding SHA and defended the programme’s rollout.
In recent statements, Duale said the health insurance reforms are progressing and challenged critics to provide evidence to support claims of wrongdoing linked to the scheme.
He maintained that the government remains committed to strengthening universal health coverage and ensuring that health facilities continue to receive reimbursements under the new system.
SHA has been presented by the government as a key pillar in expanding access to healthcare services across the country. Officials say the system is designed to improve efficiency and coverage compared to the previous NHIF framework.