Graphics by Bluxel Africa
In 2024, Kenya’s healthcare system underwent one of its most significant reforms in decades. The Social Health Authority (SHA) officially replaced the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), ushering in a more inclusive, digital, and universal approach to health coverage. But what does this mean for you as a Kenyan citizen, resident, or employer? In this guide SHA vs NHIF in Kenya, we’ll break down the real differences between SHA and NHIF, what changed, and what you need to do to stay covered.
💡 Looking for a step-by-step SHA registration guide? Read our full how-to blog here.
🩺 Quick Primer: What Changed and Why
NHIF (National Hospital Insurance Fund)
- Established in 1966, NHIF focused primarily on inpatient and limited outpatient coverage.
- Governed under the NHIF Act of 1998.
- Accessibility often depended on your payment status.
SHA (Social Health Authority)
- Introduced under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023.
- Designed to deliver Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all Kenyans.
- SHA operates via three interconnected funds:
- ✅ Primary Healthcare Fund (PHCF)
- ✅ Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF)
- ✅ Emergency, Chronic, and Critical Illness Fund (ECCIF)
📄 Explore the Social Health Insurance Act here.
SHA vs NHIF: Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | NHIF | SHA |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Framework | NHIF Act, 1998 | Social Health Insurance Act, 2023 |
| Coverage Scope | Mostly inpatient & some outpatient | Full spectrum: preventive, curative, palliative, promotive & emergency |
| Access to Services | Based on payment status | Guaranteed upon registration |
| Contribution Model | Income-based, voluntary for informal sector | Mandatory for all; subsidized for vulnerable groups |
| Dependent Coverage | Covered under primary account | Covered, with structured dependent registration |
| Card Requirement | Physical card required | Moving to digital ID-based access |
Pros SHA has over NHIF
1. Digital Integration with eCitizen & Huduma
SHA is being integrated with eCitizen, Huduma Centers, and other national databases, creating a unified system for service delivery. This means fewer queues, faster verification, and better tracking.
Learn how to register for SHA online or via *147#.
2. Facility Tiering & Standardized Rates
Unlike NHIF’s ambiguous charges, SHA introduces transparent, standardized daily treatment rates based on hospital levels — public, private, mission, etc. This curbs exploitation and ensures predictable medical costs.
3. No More “Card” Culture
SHA is ditching the physical card system. Instead, your National ID or biometric data will serve as your health identity — eliminating fraud, loss of cards, and admin delays.
4. Emphasis on Community Health
SHA is decentralizing care by building up Community Health Units (CHUs). This shift from NHIF’s hospital-centric model allows proactive, grassroots-level care, especially in rural and underserved regions.
Actionable Recommendations for Every Kenyan
Register early via the SHA portal or by dialing *147#.
Update your dependents — children, spouses, and guardians must be properly registered.
Monitor your contributions through SHA’s dashboard or M-Pesa paybill process.
Talk to your employer to ensure payroll deductions comply with SHA’s structure.
Stay informed by bookmarking SHA’s official FAQ and updates section:
SHA FAQs – www.sha.go.ke/faqs
Useful Resources
- 📘 How to Register for SHA: Step-by-Step Guide
- 📋 Downloadable SHA Checklist PDF – Free Resource
- 📞 Contact Bluxel Africa for Help With SHA Registration
Need Help With SHA Transition or Registration?
Graphics By Bluxel Africa
Whether you’re an individual, a parent updating dependents, or an employer enrolling your workforce, Divas Technology College is ready to support you.
📍 Visit us in Kilifi County
📱 Call or WhatsApp us at +254 115 690 990
💬 Or message us via our Contact Page
Final Thoughts: SHA Is Not Just an Update It’s a Revolution
SHA represents a complete reimagining of healthcare delivery in Kenya — one that is digitally enabled, community-driven, and rights-based.
While NHIF laid the groundwork, SHA is here to complete the mission of accessible healthcare for all. Don’t wait — register today, stay informed, and let Bluxel Africa guide you through the transition.
