The Social Health Authority has announced major enhancements to selected health benefit packages in a move aimed at strengthening Universal Health Coverage and reducing the financial burden on patients.
The reforms follow directives issued by William Ruto during the 2025 State of the Nation Address, alongside resolutions from the 12th Ordinary Session of the National and County Governments Coordinating Summit, public participation feedback and healthcare utilisation data.
According to SHA Chief Executive Officer Nancy Mwangangi, one of the major changes is the introduction of free maternity care services at Level 2 and Level 3 health facilities.
“These enhancements, published by the Cabinet Secretary for Health in consultation with the SHA Board through Legal Notice No. 78 of 2026, mark a significant milestone in our commitment to Universal Health Coverage and leaving no Kenyan behind,” Mwangangi said.
Free Maternity Care
Under the new arrangement, all registered SHA beneficiaries will access free delivery services at primary healthcare facilities on a walk-in, walk-out basis.
The services will be fully financed through the Primary Healthcare Fund budget allocation.
SHA announced the following reimbursement rates for healthcare facilities:
- Sh10,000 for normal deliveries and essential newborn care
- Sh30,000 for caesarean section procedures and essential newborn care
Expanded Cancer Treatment Package
The Authority also revealed a major expansion of the cancer treatment package.
The annual cancer benefits package has been increased from Sh550,000 to Sh800,000.
In addition, funding under the Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund has been increased from Sh150,000 to Sh400,000.
Patients undergoing treatment will now access holistic oncology consultations worth up to Sh2,500 per visit.
The consultations will cover services from:
- Oncologists
- Nutritionists
- Mental health specialists
- Palliative care teams
SHA says the reforms are designed to improve access to quality healthcare services while strengthening Kenya’s push toward universal health coverage.
