OPINION: Investing in health insurance is key despite tough economic times

Let’s be honest, we are currently living in what one might deem as tough times. For some, these are the toughest times of their existence. 

The reality is, the cost of living keeps rising, and for many Kenyan households, a medical insurance cover or any insurance cover feels like just another expense they can’t afford.

But here’s the reality: not having medical insurance coverage is currently far more expensive in the long run. 

A single hospital visit can drain your savings, leaving you in debt for years. This might cause your family to fall ill from diseases, high blood pressure and any stress-related disease.

So, how can a family already juggling rent, school fees, and fuel costs afford a crucial health cover? We have laid out five practical, budget-conscious ways to get started, without sacrificing other priorities:

1. Budget for It Like You Would Rent or Fees

Just the same way you wouldn’t skip paying school fees, rent or paying your ‘sherehe’ (entertainment) dues every end of the month, your insurance cover should earn a spot in your monthly budget as well.

You see, when you treat your cover as a fixed cost and not a luxury, it becomes easier to prioritise.

2. Rethink Daily Spending Habits

Just in case you feel that taking up a medical insurance cover is expensive, just take a step back and have a look at your expenses and look at how often you spend things that don’t add long-term value to your general well-being.

Once you do this, you can proceed to redirect just a portion of those amounts to securing a medical cover that protects you and your family.

3. Take Advantage of Your Corporate Insurance Cover

If your employer has insured you, please maximise it. Some companies allow you to top up your existing cover at a discounted rate through corporate partnerships with insurers like First Assurance. This ensures that your entire family is covered.

Also, keep in mind that prevention is better than a cure, so make sure you utilise your annual check-ups.

4. Identify a reliable insurance company

Choosing the right medical insurance provider is just as important as getting covered. You need a partner who truly understands your unique needs—one that offers flexible, tailored solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all policy.

Some insurance companies, such as ours, go beyond basic coverage. Whether it’s customisable plans, responsive customer support, or comprehensive benefits, we will work with you to design a medical cover that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Most of us would never drive a car without insurance, yet many of us risk our health by not being covered. The truth? A Medical cover isn’t as out of reach as you might think—you just need the right strategy.

The writer is the Marketing and Communications Manager at First Assurance Company Ltd.