FIDA-Kenya Calls for Review of Social Health Insurance Fund Implementation
The Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Kenya) has criticized the government over challenges in implementing the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), which replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023.
In a statement issued on Monday, November 18, FIDA raised concerns about systemic gaps affecting access to equitable healthcare. They noted that inadequate public awareness and poor health system preparedness have disrupted critical services, leaving vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, at risk.
FIDA called on the Ministry of Health and the Social Health Authority (SHA) to establish clear operational guidelines, address pending NHIF claims, and ensure the ongoing digitization of health records is inclusive. They also proposed creating a dispute resolution tribunal to handle grievances efficiently.
The organization emphasized that access to healthcare must align with Article 43 of the Constitution, guaranteeing the right to health for all Kenyans.
FIDA-Kenya Calls for Review of Social Health Insurance Fund Implementation