More than promises needed on SHA system crisis to avert continued patients’ suffering

The ongoing crisis within the Social Health Authority (SHA) marked by rampant system glitches that has left desperate patients suffering untold anguish, some battling terminal illnesses and exposing them to possible grave danger of death needs urgent solution forthwith.

It is mind boggling that such a critical issue is getting overshadowed by political rhetoric and promises rather than tangible fixes.

Instead of focusing solely on promises to alleviate the suffering of patients, the conversation needs to center on concrete, actionable solutions and a deeper understanding of the systemic problems that lead to such crises.

At least, for the first time yesterday, President William Ruto while addressing congregants at the Jesus Winner Ministry in Roysambu, Nairobi, after remaining mum to the crisis surrounding SHA, he acknowledged the hiccups and promised solution to the teething problems sooner than later.

However, Mr. President, ailments do not wait, they ravage and immobilise within no time and at times, condemn the victims to unfortunate but ultimate fate of death. That’s how urgent and dire the situation is!

“It (SHA) is the biggest programme we have in the country. It may take time for things to align, but believe you me: It is going to work,” the president said.

SHA inefficiencies has informed indefinite suspension of services under the SHA insurance scheme, the Social Hospital Insurance Fund (SHIF) by Rural and Urban Private Hospitals Association of Kenya (RUPHA) since February 24, 2025 due to unpaid claims amounting to Sh30billion and what they cite as an unsustainable reimbursement model.

RUPHA has also demanded full disclosure of SHA hospital claims reimbursement formula.

This situation has gravely affected the availability and quality of healthcare services to citizens.

The underfunding of hospitals, clinics, and essential care services has also created a vicious cycle of long waiting times, overcrowded hospitals and inadequate medical care.

Needless to say, there should be a thorough review including allocating resources towards SHA programme from the exchequer and monitoring whether they are being used efficiently and not just relying on SHA member contributions.

Mere promises of reform often don’t translate to a meaningful improvement in patients’ experiences.

The system must prioritise patient-centered care by improving access to services, reducing bureaucratic barriers and red-tapism, and ensuring that patients receive personalised and timely attention.

Transparency in how health funds are spent, how decisions are made, and how resources are distributed is essential for building public trust.

It cannot be gainsaid that SHA, despite how well-intended the programme might have been, suffered trust deficit right from inception and transition from the defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

There should also be mechanisms in place to hold health authorities at Afya House, the headquarters of the Ministry of Health accountable for the promises they make and the outcomes they deliver.

Rather than more promises, it’s time for a long-term, multi-faceted approach to reform that addresses the root causes of the SHA system’s failures and puts patient well-being at the center.