Kenya Expands SHA Benefits: Free Maternity, Higher Cancer Cover and Stronger Health Protection
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The Government has officially enhanced healthcare benefits under the Social Health Authority (SHA) following directives by President William Ruto and resolutions from the 12th Summit.
The changes, published under Legal Notice No. 78 of 2026 in the Kenya Gazette, are aimed at strengthening Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and reducing the financial burden of medical care on Kenyan families.
The reforms were issued by the Ministry of Health.
Free Maternity Services at Public Health Facilities
All registered SHA beneficiaries will now access free maternity services at Level 2 and Level 3 health facilities.
- Normal delivery
- Caesarean section
- Antenatal and postnatal care
- Newborn care and immunization
- Medical tests and medication during admission
The Government says the services will be available on a “walk-in, walk-out” basis.
“All registered beneficiaries shall access free delivery services at designated primary healthcare facilities,” the notice states.
Normal delivery is capped at Ksh 10,000, while caesarean section is set at Ksh 30,000, fully covered under public financing.
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SHA Increased Cancer Treatment Cover
In a major relief for cancer patients, the annual cancer treatment cover has been increased from Ksh 550,000 to Ksh 800,000.
- Chemotherapy and radiotherapy
- CT scans, MRI and PET scans
- Brachytherapy and SBRT/SBRS procedures
- Specialist consultations
- Supportive medication and follow-up care
“The expanded cancer package is designed to reduce catastrophic health expenditure and improve access to specialised treatment,” the Ministry of Health stated.
Support for Sickle Cell Patients
The Government has also introduced targeted support for patients living with sickle cell disease.
- Apheresis platelets at Ksh 20,000 (up to 3 times per year)
- Red cell exchange at Ksh 70,000 (up to 3 times per year)
Revised Chronic Illness Cover
The amendments also increase the chronic illness benefit under the Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund.
The new cover has been raised from Ksh 150,000 to Ksh 400,000.
Expanded Cancer and Diagnostic Services
The new tariff schedule also revises oncology and diagnostic services, including:
- PET scans, MRI and CT scans
- Tumour marker tests and biopsies
- Bone marrow tests and flow cytometry
- Radiotherapy sessions (up to 30 sessions)
- Chemotherapy as per national treatment guidelines
Advanced procedures such as brachytherapy and SBRT/SBRS have also been included in the updated package.
Government Commitment to UHC
The Ministry of Health says the reforms are part of Kenya’s long-term plan to achieve Universal Health Coverage and ensure no family is pushed into poverty due to medical bills.
“These reforms are designed to protect the health, dignity and financial well-being of every Kenyan,” the Government noted.
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Enhanced SHA Benefit Packages
PHOTO/Kenya Gazette
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