Kenyans have been urged to participate in shaping the future of healthcare as the Ministry of Health initiates public engagement on the Social Health Insurance Act 2023 regulations.
The deadline for submitting views on both the Social Health Insurance (General) Regulations 2024 and the Social Health Insurance (Dispute Resolution Tribunal) Regulations 2024 is set for February 9.
The regulations, pivotal for implementing the groundbreaking Social Health Insurance Act of 2023 enacted on October 19, will be instrumental in guiding the application of the Act. Health CS Susan Nakhumicha emphasizes the importance of public input, inviting Kenyans to share their perspectives through written memoranda or participate in physical and virtual meetings.
According to the Ministry, the Social Health Insurance (General) Regulations 2024 will outline the procedures for implementing the Primary Healthcare fund and managing the Social Health Insurance Fund, emergency, chronic, and critical illness Fund.
CS Nakhumicha states, “The object of these regulations shall be to set out the procedure to facilitate just, expeditious and impartial determination of complaints, disputes, and appeals arising out of decisions made under the Social Health Insurance Act 2023.”
Despite initial legal challenges, the Court of Appeal recently lifted orders against the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023. However, three provisions remain suspended pending further appeal, including requirements related to registration, contributions, and unique identification for healthcare services.
The Act grants the CS, in consultation with the Social Health Authority, the power to formulate regulations covering various aspects mandated by the Act. Kenyans are encouraged to actively participate in the process, submitting their feedback to the Office of the Cabinet Secretary through written memoranda, physical meetings, or virtual consultations, the details of which will be communicated by the Social Health Authority.
This marks a critical juncture in the country’s healthcare landscape, as the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Act has the potential to reshape access to healthcare services for all Kenyans. Public engagement is vital in ensuring that the regulations reflect the diverse needs and concerns of the population, paving the way for a more inclusive and effective healthcare system.
