The Social Health Authority (SHA) is a vital component of Kenya’s healthcare reform, aiming to make quality healthcare accessible to everyone.
The Government introduced SHA, a new and enhanced public health insurance program, that stands out from NHIF by offering a broader range of services and benefits to its members. For instance, SHA (SHIF) provides comprehensive coverage for chronic ailments, addressing a key area where NHIF often fell short.
A notable distinction between SHIF and NHIF is its focus on inclusivity for underprivileged members of society. Unlike NHIF, which required a flat rate of Ksh500 for all self-employed individuals, SHIF employs a graduated payment structure. Individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds can pay as little as Ksh300, while wealthier members contribute slightly more, ensuring a fair distribution of the financial burden.
Enrollment in SHA requires mandatory completion of a Means Test. This assessment enables the government to determine premium amounts based on the applicant’s financial capacity, ensuring that contributions are equitable and aligned with individual circumstances.
SHA acts as an umbrella organization that coordinates and oversees the delivery of healthcare services at the county and national levels. It works to ensure every Kenyan, regardless of economic status has access to affordable, quality healthcare.
Purpose and Role of SHA.
SHA serves as the backbone of Kenya’s healthcare reforms under the UHC framework. Its key functions include:
1. Regulation of Healthcare Services – Ensuring that healthcare facilities comply with national standards.
2. Resource Allocation – Equitably distributing resources to counties to improve healthcare infrastructure.
3. Policy Implementation – Overseeing the rollout of healthcare policies, such as digital health initiatives and insurance schemes.
4. Public Health Programs – Leading initiatives in maternal health vaccination campaigns, and diseases prevention.
NOTE: SHA is the body that manages the healthcare insurance funds contributed by the public. This umbrella body also handles membership registration. Under SHA are three (3) distinctive funds each one with its unique mandate namely:
(1) SHIF – Social Health Insurance Fund.
(2) PHCF – Primary Health Care Fund.
(3) ECCF – Emergency Chronic & Clinical Illness Fund.
Methods Used to Register for SHA in Kenya.
There are two ways to register for SHA. These are (1) Online registration (i.e., from the sha.go.ke website) (2) Through USSD Code *147#.
1. Online Registration.
Step 1: Visit the Official Website.
Open your web browser and go to www.sha.go.ke.
This is the primary platform for accessing SHA services and resources.
Step 2: Create Account.
Click on the ‘Register’ button prominently displayed on the homepage.
You will be redirected to the registration form.
Once you click on ’Register’, a page appears requesting you to agree to the terms and conditions in order to proceed.
Step 3: Enter Personal Details.
Fill in your personal information accurately. This includes:
First Name (as it appears on your National ID)
National ID Number (or Foreign Resident Certificate/Refugee ID for non-citizens)
Your Mobile number
When you fill in your details correctly click on ‘Proceed’.
Step 4: OTP Verification.
You will receive a one-time-code through the mobile number that you filled in.
Click on ‘Send code’ in order to receive the code.
Once you enter the code click on ’Proceed’.
Step 5: Create PIN.
For your account to be secure you are required to create a 4-digit pin.
When done click on ‘Proceed’ to continue.
Step 6: Go through the Registration Guide.
Read the 3-point registration guide that shows up. It comprises details on basic registration, adding dependants, and biometrics verification.
Once you’re done reading, click on the “Continue Registration” button at the bottom of the page.
Step 7: Fill in your Identity Information.
Upload your passport (optional), and fill in your personal information.
Click on’ Next’ to continue.
Step 8: Fill in the Contact Information.
Fill in your contact information namely: Your phone number, alternative phone number, postal address, email address and your postal code.
When done click on ’Next’.
Step 9: Confirm and Submit Details.
Ensure you go through your entire information, and also attest that the information you have provided is correct.
When done click on ’Submit’.
Step 10. Complete Registration.
Once you click on ‘Submit’, your home page now appears showing your account and most importantly the Means Testing functionality. You will need to complete this test to help the SHA system calculate your premiums i.e. how much you’ll need to pay per month or per year.
2. Through USSD Code *147#.
The 147# USSD code is a simple and efficient way to register for the State Health Authority (SHA) in Kenya. This code allows individuals to access SHA services, including registration, via their mobile phones without needing internet connectivity. Below is a step -by-step guide on how to use the 147# USSD code for registration.
Step 1: Dial *147# on your mobile phone.
Ensure your phone has an active SIM card from a Kenyan mobile service provider.
You don’t need internet access to use this USSD code.
To proceed you have to press ‘Option 1’ which is For the Kenyan citizen or ‘Option 2’ if you’re a foreign resident.
Step 2: Enter Your National ID Number.
You will be prompted to input your National ID number or other identification details such as a Passport or Birth Certificate number.
Step 3: Agree to Terms and Conditions.
Accept the terms and conditions by responding with Option 1.
Step 4: Select The Initials Letter of the County you come From.
Select the first letter of your county of residence. For instance, for Nairobi you would need to choose number 4 as that’s where counties starting with letter fall under. For Mombasa you’d need to settle for number 3 and Wajir option on the menu and so forth.
Step 5: Select Your County According to the Names provided.
Depending on the Initials you picked in the ‘Step 4’ above, names of the counties will appear whereby you can select your county accordingly.
Step 6: Select Your Sub-County.
Select your sub-county of residence from the list of sub-counties falling under your chosen county.
Step 7: Fill in Your Employment Status.
A list of employment status appears and you select your status accordingly.
Step 8: Select your Civil Status.
Single
Married
Divorced
Widowed
Step 9: Fill in Your Disability Status.
Yes
No
Step 10: Set Up Your 4-Digit PIN and Confirm.
To keep your SHA account safe and secure you are required to set up a pin so as to keep your account safe.
Step 11 : Confirm and Submit.
Verify that the details you have provided are correct, then send.
How to Add a Spouse to SHA as Beneficiary.
Your spouse first needs to sign-up for SHA and complete the Means Test so you can add them to your list of beneficiaries. To do that, you will need to provide their:
ID Number
Phone Number
OTP (when prompted)
You’ll also need to confirm if they are a contributor or not.
How to Contact SHA.
0800720601 is the official contact number for the Social Health Authority (SHA). The line is manned 24/7. Other ways to get in touch with SHA are through their email address info@sha.go.ke or making a visit to your nearest SHA branch or Huduma Centre.
CONCLUSION.
Whether you register online, via USSD, or in person, the process is straightforward and designed to accommodate everyone, including those in remote areas. By registering for SHA, you secure access to affordable healthcare for yourself and your family, contributing to the broader goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage in Kenya.
