Difference Between SHA, SHIF, and NHIF

Kenya’s healthcare financing has undergone changes with the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) under the Social Health Authority (SHA). Here’s how they differ:

 

1. National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) – Old System

NHIF was Kenya’s national health insurer before the transition.

 

It offered medical insurance for employed and self-employed individuals.

 

Contributions were based on income levels, with formal employees having deductions from their salaries.

 

Provided hospitalization, outpatient services, maternity, and specialized treatments.

 

Had various schemes like Supa Cover and Linda Mama.

 

 

2. Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) – New System

SHIF replaced NHIF as Kenya’s primary healthcare financing scheme under the Social Health Authority (SHA).

 

It aims to provide universal health coverage by pooling resources from both formal and informal sector workers.

 

Contributions are mandatory for all Kenyans.

 

Unlike NHIF, SHIF requires means testing for unemployed and self-employed individuals to determine their contribution.

 

Focuses on a wider range of services, including preventive and promotive care.

 

 

3. Social Health Authority (SHA) – The Governing Body

 

SHA is the government agency managing SHIF and other social health programs.

 

It was established to oversee and regulate health insurance in Kenya.

 

Responsible for ensuring efficient fund management, fraud prevention, and service delivery.

 

Works towards implementing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all Kenyans.

 

 

Key Takeaways:

 

NHIF was abolished and replaced with SHIF under SHA.

 

SHIF is mandatory, and contributions are structured based on means testing.

 

SHA is the regulatory body that manages SHIF and other health financing programs.

 

 

These reforms aim to improve access to quality healthcare and ensure that every Kenyan is covered regardless of employment status.