SHA: Gov't unveils improved health packages, including Linda Mama

The Ministry of Health has unveiled new packages contained in the new medical scheme that is set to be rolled out on October 1, 2024.

The ministry says the packages have enhanced benefits that show the government's commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all Kenyans and ensuring access to quality, equitable, and affordable services without causing financial hardship.

In the new Social Health Authority (SHA) benefits, the ministry says it will ensure access by all Kenyans particularly on primary health and emergency services with emphasis on preventive, promotive, curative care services, rehabilitative and palliative care.

Screening for chronic diseases and provision of palliative care services has also been added. It was previously not covered under the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

Under the outpatient care package, there will be lab services for diabetes, hypertension, sickle-cell, and asthma with a focus on comprehensive care including preventive and chronic conditions.

Under in-patient, reimbursement rate is standardized across hospitals irrespective of whether it is a private or public facility.

SHA has also introduced Linda Mama package which covers for the antenatal care, postnatal care, delivery by C/S and normal, newborn child, and anti-D serum.

In addition, indigent mothers will be covered by the government for full benefits with improved reimbursement of Ksh.10,000 for normal delivery at dispensary and health centers.

Renal services have also been enhanced under SHA. Hemodialysis scope has been expanded to include erythropoietin injection as well as new service on peritoneal dialysis, kidney transplant for donor and recipient and post transplant immunosuppressants.

Under mental health services, SHA has increased the rate of reimbursement for drug and substance abuse rehabilitation.

The new packages also entail hematology and oncology services that have an expanded scope that includes management of sickle cell disease, diagnosis and staging of cancers as well as standardized treatment of cancers based on clinical guidelines.

Under the emergency evacuation and treatment, the packages include emergency evacuation from the point of the incident to the nearest facility.

Resuscitation and stabilization in life threatening conditions is also guaranteed and is accessible to all Kenyans, regardless of registration or premium payment status.

Also in the packages are palliative care, overseas treatment, screening services, optical services and surgical services.