The government has announced fresh measures aimed at improving the Mwalimu Comprehensive Medical Cover as teachers continue to raise concerns over access to treatment under the new Social Health Authority (SHA) system.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale met officials from the Kenya National Union of Teachers, the Teachers Service Commission and the Social Health Authority during the end of a two-day consultative retreat held to review the progress of the scheme and address challenges facing teachers.
The discussions come months after many teachers complained about delays in treatment, confusion over hospitals, and difficulties experienced after the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund system to SHA.
During the meeting, the government said some progress had already been made under the teachers’ medical scheme.
According to the Ministry of Health, 35 claims under the Last Expense Benefit have already been processed and paid out to affected families. Officials also said the Ex-Gratia Management Framework had started working to help beneficiaries access support faster.
Teachers seeking specialised treatment abroad will also now be able to access overseas referral services through the scheme. Officials revealed that one teacher has already been sent abroad for treatment under the SHA arrangement.
In another move likely to bring relief to some families, the government said four hospitals had been identified to offer IVF services to teachers covered under the programme.
The meeting also discussed ongoing talks between SHA and hospitals over payment rates and reimbursements. The government said the negotiations are meant to ensure hospitals are paid fairly while keeping the scheme sustainable.
Teachers are also expected to receive an updated list of approved hospitals soon. The list will be shared with KNUT leaders and uploaded to the SHA platform to help teachers know where they can seek treatment without challenges.
To deal with complaints at the county level, Duale directed SHA to set up joint coordination committees within one week. The teams will include officials from KNUT, TSC and SHA and will help handle issues affecting teachers on the ground more quickly.
Duale said the government remains committed to improving healthcare services for teachers and ensuring the Mwalimu medical cover becomes dependable for teachers and their families across the country.
