The Social Health Authority (SHA) has issued a stern directive to all healthcare providers under its contract, mandating the provision of emergency medical services without delay or financial barriers.
According to a notice released on Saturday, hospitals and health facilities must not require deposits, advance payments, or proof of insurance before administering emergency care. This requirement is grounded in Article 43(2) of the Constitution of Kenya and the terms of SHA’s contracts with healthcare providers.
Emergency Care Funding and Referral Guidelines
SHA CEO Dr Mercy Mwangangi emphasized that emergency treatment costs for the first 24 hours will be covered by the Emergency, Critical and Chronic Illness Fund (ECCIF). Subsequent eligible services will be financed through the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) or other payment arrangements.
Facilities unable to continue managing emergency cases must stabilize patients before referring them to another contracted facility, following Ministry of Health referral protocols.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
Dr Mwangangi warned that hospitals failing to comply with these regulations risk removal from the SHA network and contract termination. Additionally, such providers may face further regulatory or enforcement actions.
She urged all hospital leadership and emergency department staff to ensure immediate adherence to the directive, highlighting the critical importance of timely emergency care regardless of patients’ financial status.
