Quick Answer
The Social Health Authority (SHA) replaced the NHIF on 1 October 2024. It runs three funds — the Primary Healthcare Fund, the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) and the Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund — that together aim to cover Kenyans from a village dispensary to specialised treatment.
Key facts
- SHA replaced NHIF on 1 October 2024.
- It was created under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023.
- It runs three funds covering primary, hospital and catastrophic care.
- Registration is fresh — NHIF membership does not carry over.
What SHA is
The Social Health Authority (SHA) is the single State body that manages public health insurance, replacing the NHIF that had run since the 1960s. It was established under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, as part of the push toward Universal Health Coverage.
The three funds
SHA is built around three funds:
- Primary Healthcare Fund — government-funded; covers preventive and outpatient care at Levels 1–3 (community units, dispensaries, health centres).
- Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) — the contributory fund; covers inpatient care, surgery, maternity, chronic disease and mental health at Levels 4–6.
- Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund — a safety net for catastrophic events like advanced cancer, dialysis and intensive care.
What changed from NHIF
Unlike NHIF’s flat bands, SHIF contributions are income-based, the benefit package is meant to be one unified package for everyone, and a referral (gatekeeping) rule generally routes you through a primary facility first.
The system is still settling and has faced legal and operational challenges — confirm the current benefits and rules before relying on specifics.
Why this matters to you
SHA decides what care is paid for and how you access it. Understanding the three funds — and that you must register afresh — helps you avoid being turned away at a hospital for lack of cover.
Frequently asked questions
When did SHA replace NHIF?
On 1 October 2024.
What are the three SHA funds?
The Primary Healthcare Fund, the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), and the Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund.
Does my NHIF membership carry over?
No — SHA requires fresh registration.
Sources & references
- Social Health Authority — sha.go.ke
- Social Health Insurance Act, 2023 — kenyalaw.org
- Ministry of Health — health.go.ke