Elgeyo Marakwet County Governor Wisley Rotich has announced an ambitious goal for every household in the county to be registered with the Social Healthcare Authority (SHA) by December 2024.
This move is intended to ensure that all residents benefit from the scheme and reduce the need for fundraising events, commonly known as Harambee, to cover healthcare expenses.
During the SHA registration drive launch Friday at Moi Girls Kapsowar in Marakwet West Sub County, Governor Rotich expressed his satisfaction with the SHA’s inclusive and affordable approach to healthcare.
“I am glad that the Social Healthcare Authority takes stock of everyone and caters to the needs of every individual as it is affordable,” he stated.
Governor Rotich highlighted the financial hardships that arise from extreme healthcare bills, which often plunge families into poverty.
“Many have to sell their land to cater for huge bills, especially in cases where a family member is diagnosed with cancer,” he noted.
He emphasised the scheme’s affordability, saying, “You pay your three hundred and the rest will be settled if you need help.”
The Governor also pointed out the significant benefits at the primary healthcare level.
“The most beautiful thing is that at the dispensaries and health centres, care will be free as money for primary healthcare will be trickled down to the hospitals. For this to happen, you have to be registered,” he added.
He urged critical partners, stakeholders, teachers, political leaders, religious leaders, and the youth to join hands in this initiative. “We need to walk this journey together for us to be able to succeed as a country.”
Dr Amoth also emphasised the importance of political commitment to achieving universal health coverage.
“The greatest ingredient required for countries globally to be able to achieve universal health coverage is political enlightenment, as the President has exhibited. Therefore, failure is not an option as we progress on this journey,” he concluded.
Elijah Wachira, CEO of SHA, highlighted the financial prudence of health insurance.
“It is important to get health insurance as one pays small, manageable payments. In the event of a large medical bill, the little you have been paying will cater for it,” he noted.
He assured residents that their payments would support others in need, preventing them from financial distress due to medical expenses.
Residents can register for SHA through the USSD code *147#, the website sha.go.ke, or at SHA offices, formerly NHIF offices.
