Teachers in Limbo: SHA Failures Fuel Nationwide Strike Threat

The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has once again raised concerns over what it describes as continued inefficiencies in the Social Health Authority (SHA) system, saying the challenges are denying teachers timely access to medical services across the country.

KUPPET said many teachers are still experiencing delays in accessing treatment, while others are reportedly being turned away from hospitals despite being registered under the SHA.

According to KUPPET officials, the problems have persisted months after teachers were transitioned from NHIF to SHA, raising eyebrows among members who depend on the cover for essential healthcare services for themselves and also their families.

Teachers in several regions have reported cases in which hospitals declined to honour SHA, delayed treatment approvals, and confused procedures under the new system.

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KUPPET Challenges

KUPPET also cited weak complaint resolution mechanisms as a major challenge affecting members who are seeking assistance.

KUPPET leaders have warned that unless the situation is urgently addressed, the union may be forced to take industrial action that could disrupt learning in secondary schools across the country.

The warning follows recent statements by KUPPET National Chairman Omboko Milemba, indicating that teachers could plan a nationwide strike by the end of April if concerns surrounding the medical cover and staffing shortages remain unresolved.

Teachers Lack Treatment From Hospitals

KUPPET said some teachers have already been forced to pay medical bills out of pocket despite being registered under SHA, further increasing frustration among its members.

Earlier, KUPPET had issued a seven-day ultimatum over what it termed failures in the SHA, urging the government to address the issues and challenges that are affecting teachers who are seeking treatment in SHA-accredited hospitals.

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KUPPET Gives Warning

KUPPET said it had engaged relevant stakeholders and expected the rollout of the system to be treated as a transition phase followed by a review to address emerging concerns affecting beneficiaries.

The Social Health Authority replaced the National Hospital Insurance Fund as part of wider health sector reforms aimed at improving access to affordable healthcare for public servants and other Kenyans, although teachers say implementation gaps remain a major concern.

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