The Ministry of Health has introduced new healthcare packages under a medical scheme set to launch on October 1, 2024. These packages are designed to provide enhanced benefits, reflecting the government's dedication to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Kenya. The goal is to ensure that all Kenyans have access to quality, equitable, and affordable healthcare services without facing financial burdens.
The new benefits, offered through the Social Health Authority (SHA), focus on providing comprehensive access to primary healthcare and emergency services, with an emphasis on preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care. Additionally, screening for chronic diseases and palliative care, which were previously not covered under the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), are now included.
For outpatient services, the package includes lab tests for conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, sickle cell, and asthma, with a focus on both preventive and chronic care. Inpatient services will now feature standardized reimbursement rates across all hospitals, whether private or public.
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The SHA has also introduced the Linda Mama package, covering antenatal and postnatal care, delivery (both cesarean and normal), care for newborns, and anti-D serum. Indigent mothers will receive full coverage, with the government increasing reimbursement to Ksh.10,000 for normal deliveries at dispensaries and health centers.
Renal care has been significantly improved, expanding the scope of hemodialysis to include erythropoietin injections, peritoneal dialysis, kidney transplants for both donors and recipients, and post-transplant immunosuppressant medications.
In mental health, SHA has raised the reimbursement rates for rehabilitation services related to drug and substance abuse. Hematology and oncology services have also been expanded to include the management of sickle cell disease, cancer diagnosis and staging, and standardized cancer treatment in line with clinical guidelines.
Emergency care services in the new packages include evacuation from the scene of an incident to the nearest healthcare facility. Resuscitation and stabilization in life-threatening situations will be accessible to all Kenyans, regardless of their registration or premium payment status.
The new scheme also covers palliative care, overseas treatment, screening services, optical services, and various surgical procedures.
