The Ministry of Health (MoH) has announced revised funding allocations under the Social Health Authority (SHA) to enhance support for cancer management and critical care services.
In a statement shared by the Principal Secretary (PS) for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, the ministry confirmed that additional funding has been allocated to expand benefits for patients requiring cancer diagnosis and treatment services. The changes take effect immediately.
Under the new provisions, each patient will have access to up to Ksh550,000 per year for their treatment journey. Specifically, Ksh400,000 will be provided through the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), while an additional Ksh150,000 will be accessible through the Emergency, Critical Care & Chronic Illness Fund (ECCIF).
“This expansion will enable members to receive the care and support they deserve during a challenging time,” the Ministry of Health stated.
Increased Funding for ICU and HDU Services
In addition to the enhanced cancer care benefits, the ministry also revealed a significant increase in reimbursements for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and High Dependency Unit (HDU) services. The reimbursement rate has been raised from Ksh4,480 per day to Ksh28,000 per day, reflecting the government’s commitment to ensuring access to essential healthcare services.
The ministry emphasized that patients will receive services from contracted healthcare providers to ensure the highest quality of care.
Strengthening Universal Health Coverage (UHC)
These changes come as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of SHA and bolster the healthcare system. The SHA has faced criticism over its implementation, with concerns raised about its ability to fulfill President William Ruto’s universal healthcare agenda.
In response to these concerns, the Ministry of Health has continued to introduce adjustments, particularly in funding allocations, to revamp the scheme and improve accessibility to healthcare services.
Updated Linda Mama Program Rates
The latest funding revisions follow a recent announcement regarding the Linda Mama program under SHA. According to the Ministry of Health, expectant mothers will now receive Ksh10,000 for normal deliveries and Ksh30,000 for C-section deliveries under the revamped scheme.
“The Linda Mama package under SHA is now better and bigger! Normal delivery – KES10,000, C-section – KES30,000,” the ministry stated.
These financial enhancements are expected to significantly improve access to quality maternal, cancer, and critical care services across Kenya. The government remains optimistic that the SHA reforms will strengthen the healthcare system and deliver on the promise of universal health coverage for all citizens.
