In a decisive move to address financial challenges in Kenya’s healthcare sector, President William Ruto has directed the government to clear all pending National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) claims below Ksh.10 million. 

The directive, which affects public, private, and faith-based hospitals, is expected to ease cash flow issues in 91% of health facilities previously contracted under NHIF.

While announcing the payments, President Ruto also emphasized the government’s commitment to eradicating fraud in the health insurance system. 

He defended the newly established Social Health Authority (SHA), saying it was designed to seal loopholes that allowed corruption in NHIF, where up to 40% of funds were allegedly lost to fraudulent claims.

Hospitals with claims exceeding Ksh.10 million will undergo a thorough verification process before payments are made. The verification exercise, set to be completed within 90 days, will ensure that only genuine claims are settled.

To further stabilize the healthcare system, Ruto assured Kenyans that SHA will process and pay current claims within a month, with Ksh.18.2 billion in undisputed claims already settled since the authority’s inception.

Despite public criticism over system failures in the new digital health platform Taifa Care, the President dismissed calls for its abolishment, arguing that resistance to the new system is being driven by individuals who benefited from NHIF’s loopholes.

“The government is fully committed to providing Universal Health Coverage to every Kenyan without discrimination. I would like to assure all Kenyans that any challenges being experienced in the implementation of Taifa Care are being attended to and resolved.”  Ruto stated, affirming his administration’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage for all Kenyans.