By Expose Watchdog 
The Social Health Authority (SHA), established under Section 25 of the Act, pools all contributions made to provide healthcare services.
These services are offered through empanelled and contracted healthcare providers and facilities on referral from primary health facilities.
Registration Requirement
All individuals residing in Kenya must register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) within 90 days of the regulations coming into force.
This requirement extends to all residents, including children who do not possess identification documents.
Healthcare Services Covered
The fund supports integrated healthcare services, including preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative services, offered at Level 4, 5, and 6 healthcare facilities.
Here’s a table outlining What is Covered by the Social Health Authority (SHA)
| Service Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Preventive Services | Integrated preventive healthcare services aimed at disease prevention and health promotion. |
| Promotive Services | Health education and interventions that promote healthy lifestyles and reduce risk factors. |
| Curative Services | Treatment for illnesses and injuries at accredited health facilities (Level 4, 5, and 6). |
| Rehabilitative Services | Support services to help individuals recover from illness or injury and regain functional capacity. |
| Palliative Services | Care aimed at improving the quality of life for patients with life-threatening or terminal conditions. |
| Emergency Services | Coverage for emergency medical care at accredited facilities. |
| Critical Care Services | Specialized intensive care services that go beyond the essential healthcare benefits package. |
| Chronic Illness Treatment | Management and treatment of chronic conditions that exceed the standard essential healthcare benefits. |
How to register for SHA in Kenya?
| Registration Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Dial USSD Code | Dial *147# on your phone.
Provide your citizenship, National Identity Number (ID), Phone number. |
| 2. Online Registration | Go to SHA Website, select ‘Register Individual,’ and provide the required details (full name, occupation, date of birth, marital status, KRA PIN, address, and contact details). |
| 3. Verify Your Account | After submitting your details, verify your account via email or phone to complete the process. |
| 4. Remit SHIF Contributions | For companies, after registration, use the portal to remit Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) contributions, which are calculated as 2.75% of each employee’s gross salary. |
Companies must register employees and ensure monthly remittance of SHIF contributions.
Registration Process for Employers
Creating an Employer Account
Employers are key participants in the SHA registration process by enrolling their employees. Here’s how employers can create an account.
- Access the SHA Employer Portal: Go to sha.go.ke and select the employer section.
- Create an Account: Complete the necessary business details, including:
- Business Registration Certificate
- KRA Certificate
- Verify Your Account: Follow the verification procedures, similar to individual accounts.
Registering Employees
After setting up an employer account, you can begin adding employees:
- Log in and access your employer dashboard.
- Provide details like names, ID numbers, and dependents.
- Double-check the information before submission.
Managing Contributions
Employers are responsible for submitting contributions on behalf of their employees.
- Contributions are calculated as 2.75% of an employee’s gross salary.
- Use the employer portal to manage monthly contributions efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Social Health Authority?
The Social Health Authority (SHA) is rolled out to pool all contributions made under the Act, purchase healthcare services from empaneled and contracted healthcare providers, and pay for quality healthcare services to beneficiaries. It also receives contributions for indigents, vulnerable persons, and persons under lawful custody.
What happens if I miss the registration deadline?
Missing the deadline may delay access to SHA healthcare benefits until registration is completed in a later enrollment period.
Can I register my family members?
Yes, dependents such as children can be added to your SHA membership.
What if I don’t have a KRA PIN?
Although a KRA PIN is recommended for online registration, alternative identification methods may be used for in-person registrations at authorized centers.
Who is eligible to register for the Social Health Authority?
Everyone who resides in Kenya is required to apply for registration to the Social Health Authority, with specific provisions for children who lack identification documents.
Benefits of Registering for SHA
Registering for SHA provides various advantages
- Access a broad range of healthcare services, from preventive care to hospitalization and specialized treatment.
- Supports the goal of achieving UHC in Kenya by pooling resources for improved healthcare.
- Helps reduce out-of-pocket medical costs during emergencies or chronic illness.
Who qualifies as a dependent under the SHA?
Dependents typically include the spouse, children, and sometimes other relatives of the primary insured who depend on them for financial support and are included under their coverage.
Help & Support
For more information about registering for SHA or assistance with any issues related to your application, visit SHA’s official website.
Alternatively, you can contact their customer support via email at customercare@sha.go.ke.
SHA can be contacted directly via their toll-free number at 0800 720 601.
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