Members of Parliament sitting in the Education Committee are calling for a premium Social Health Authority (SHA) medical cover tailored for teachers, amid confusion over the future of their health insurance.
During a session with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) on Thursday, September 4, Baringo North MP Joseph Makilap floated the proposal, noting that teachers deserved a cover that matches their unique needs.
The debate comes as the current medical insurance scheme for teachers, offered through a local provider, nears expiry. Government is now steering teachers toward the SHA system, a move that has triggered unease within the profession.
Teachers argue the existing scheme is more comprehensive. It covers the teacher, a spouse, and up to four children, with benefits ranging from inpatient and outpatient care to maternity, optical, and dental services.
It also includes group life insurance and last-expense funeral benefits. Under the current arrangement, teachers can access services at accredited hospitals without a physical card, using payroll numbers or biometric verification.
At Thursday’s meeting, Tinderet MP Julius Melly, who chairs the Education Committee, confirmed that medical cover was one of the key issues under discussion.
“The forum examined the proposed transition from the current scheme to the SHA framework,” he said, adding that Makilap had suggested a dedicated premium SHA package for teachers.
Another sticking point is the risk of double deductions. Under SHA, every household must contribute 2.75 per cent of gross income, with a minimum of KSh300 a month.
Teachers fear this could overlap with the existing scheme, leaving them unfairly taxed.
Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok has already admitted the concern is valid. On August 12, he assured teachers that government was working on a solution.
“It is not right that teachers are paying twice for medical insurance. That is not the government’s position,” Bitok said. “We are engaging the TSC and unions to agree on a reliable scheme, just like civil servants and other specialised groups enjoy.”
The talks are expected to continue as government, unions, and the TSC try to iron out a model that balances affordability, access, and quality care for teachers across the country.
