The proposed regulations by the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) have been suspended by President Uhuru Kenyatta.
“I am aware of proposed changes in the fees and structure of insurance benefits of the NHIF. Given my administration’s commitment to providing affordable health care, I am directing the Ministry of health to immediately halt the implementation of this proposal to allow for further consultation.,” he said on Tuesday from State House, Mombasa.
Early in the week, the National Assembly Health committee had called for its suspension and wanted the NHIF committee to ensure it involves other stakeholders.
The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) had said the proposed structures would affect low-paid workers. It described the changes as punitive and irresponsible measures meant to frustrate Kenyans workers who are the highest contributors to the fund.
