A group of civil society organisations have called for a review of the Social Health Authority (SHA) policy framework.

They want a reassessment of the SHA framework to ensure inclusivity, equity and affordability, especially among vulnerable populations, including those affected by Tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria.

Led by the convener of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Kisumu Phillip Nyakwana, the team demanded a full disclosure of policy changes, plans and financial implications related to the SHIF/SHA transition from NHIF

“The introduction of SHIF/SHA has worsened healthcare access, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions, leading to increased mortality rates,” said Nyakwana.

Speaking during a media briefing in Kisumu town, the groups called for transparency regarding the new healthcare.

They petitioned key stakeholders, including Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa the Social Health Insurance Board, and the Parliamentary Health Committee, to provide accurate, people-centered information about the fund’s structure, benefits, and implementation model.

The activists also urged for a comprehensive public engagement,  involving community representatives, healthcare providers, CSOs, and policymakers to address the state of SHA.

They are concerned that the issues surrounding the new health scheme have severely strained Kenya’s healthcare system, disproportionately impacting marginalized groups and is threatening the country’s progress toward universal health coverage (UHC).

The lobby groups leaders argued that while the transition to SHIF/SHA was intended to improve universal healthcare coverage, its implementation has created significant challenges significantly affecting service delivery.