The SHA insurance program provides a streamlined process for Kenyan families to access affordable healthcare.
Whether you’re adding your child or spouse, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the steps with ease.
Adding Your Child to the SHA Insurance Program
The government has simplified the process to ensure parents can register their children without much hassle. Below are the steps you need to follow:
- Log in to the SHA Online Portal: Use your child’s birth certificate number to initiate the registration process. This method is applicable for biological children.
- For Babies Under Six Months: You’ll need to provide additional documents such as:
- A birth notification or birth certificate.
- A recent passport-sized photo of the child.
- Notify SHA in Advance: Ensure you inform SHA at least 14 days before starting the registration process to avoid unnecessary delays.
Don’t Forget: Adding Your Spouse as a Dependant
If you’re also considering adding your spouse to the program, the process differs slightly but remains manageable:
- Check Registration Status: Visit the Afya Yangu portal to verify if your spouse is already registered. Keep the following documents ready:
- National ID number.
- First name.
- Marriage certificate or legal affidavit proving the marriage.
- Verification Step: After submission, your spouse will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on their registered phone number. They need to input the OTP to confirm their status as a contributor or dependant.
- Finalize the Process: Once all details are verified, click the “submit” button to complete registration.
If you encounter difficulties with the SHA system, rest assured you aren’t the only one.
Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa recently acknowledged these challenges, noting that the program is still in its early stages, having been introduced less than 100 days ago. However, the government is proactively addressing these issues by:
- Upgrading the system for smoother functionality.
- Providing mentorship to stakeholders.
- Partnering with county and regional health providers to improve accessibility.
As Barasa emphasized during an interview, “With capacity-building and feedback from users like you, we’re working to create something truly impactful.”
If you’ve been postponing the process, now is an excellent time to act. The steps are straightforward, and the benefits of enrolling your loved ones in the SHA insurance program far outweigh the effort.
