Welcome to this guide on how to register for SHIF in Kenya.
The Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) is a public health insurance program that was established by the Kenyan government to help citizens access affordable and quality healthcare services. It was launched on March 1, 2024, and has since been rolled out across the country.
This program will replace the current National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) and aims to provide better healthcare coverage for all Kenyan citizens. If you are a Kenyan citizen looking to register for SHIF, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information and steps to follow.
Whether you prefer registering online, through the USSD code, or in person, we have everything you need covered. Read on to learn how to become a SHIF member and enjoy its numerous benefits.
Table of Contents
Understanding Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF)
The Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) is a vital initiative aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility for all Kenyan citizens. It operates on the principle of resource pooling, whereby members contribute to a shared fund that covers healthcare costs.
This collective approach ensures that individuals pay for their health care through regular contributions rather than out-of-pocket expenses at the time of service, making healthcare more affordable and equitable.
SHIF provides coverage for a range of medical services, including outpatient and inpatient care, maternity services, and emergency treatment. Members can access healthcare services at accredited facilities, ensuring quality care without financial hardship. The program aims to reduce the financial burden of medical expenses and promote preventive care, ultimately leading to healthier communities.
The benefits of being a SHIF member extend beyond financial savings. Members gain access to a comprehensive network of healthcare providers, ensuring quality treatment when it’s needed most. Additionally, SHIF emphasizes preventive health measures, encouraging regular check-ups and early interventions to enhance overall well-being.
Contribution rates are designed to be affordable, with the aim of including as many citizens as possible. These rates may vary based on income levels, allowing for a tiered approach that ensures equitable participation. For instance:
- Individuals in the lower-income bracket may contribute a minimal monthly fee.
- Higher-income earners might face increased rates, ensuring that the fund remains sustainable.
SHIF is open to all Kenyans over the age of 18, including students, employees, self-employed individuals, and retirees. Those who are not in formal employment can still contribute and gain access to healthcare services through voluntary membership.
Eligibility for SHIF
To be eligible for SHIF membership, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Kenyan citizen or legal resident
- Be over 18 years old
- Have a valid national identification card (ID) or passport
There are two categories of SHIF membership:
- Principal member: This is the person who is primarily responsible for the SHIF account. It’s usually the main income earner in a household.
- Dependents: These are people who are covered under the principal member’s SHIF account. They typically include spouses and children. Dependents must be listed on the principal member’s account at the time of registration.
Required Documents
When registering for SHIF, you will need to provide the following documents:
- National identification card (ID) or passport
- A recent colored passport-sized photograph
- Proof of income (e.g., payslip, bank statement, KRA PIN certificate)
If you are registering dependents, you will also need to provide:
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- Photographs and identification documents for each dependent
How to Register for SHIF in Kenya: Step-by-Step Process
Registration for SHIF can be done through three methods: USSD code, online portal, or in-person at designated registration centers. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to register using each option:
Option 1: USSD Code Registration
- Dial *147# on your mobile phone.
- Enter your national identification number (ID) when prompted.
- Follow the prompts to enter your personal information, including name, date of birth, and contact information.
Option 2: Online Registration
If you prefer to register using your computer or smartphone, you can use the SHIF website. Here’s how:
Step 1: Visit the SHIF Website
- Open a web browser and visit the Social Health Authority website.
- Click on the “Register” button at the top of the page.
Step 2: Create an Account
- On the next page, click “Proceed” to accept the Terms and Conditions.
- On the registration page, fill in your personal information, including your ID type and number and the phone number associated with your ID.
- Click “Proceed” to create your account.
Step 3: Complete Registration
- An OTP (one-time password) will be sent to your registered phone number. Enter it on the website.
- Congratulations! You have completed and submitted the online pre-registration form. Now you will need to visit any authorized SHA agent for biometric verification and activation.
Step 4: Update Your Information
- Once you have completed the registration process and activated your account, Click on “Profile” on the SHIF website to update your information.
- Upload your most recent passport-sized photo.
- Fill in your employment status and civil status and answer the disability question.
- Click “Next” to update your contact information. Once done, click “Next” again.
- On the next page, confirm that everything is correct and accept the declaration by clicking on the box provided.
- Click “Submit” to complete your registration.
- Set up your pin, and voila! You’re all set.
Note: To view and manage your profile, log in to your Afyangu account with your ID number and the PIN you created during registration. This is similar to the NHIF selfcare portal.
Option 3: In-Person Registration
You can also register by visiting any authorized SHA agent in your area. Here’s how:
- Locate the nearest SHIF agent.
- Visit the agent’s office and request assistance with SHIF registration.
- Fill out the registration form provided, including personal information, employment status, and contact details.
- Provide all required documents (ID, photo, KRA PIN, etc) and those of any dependents you wish to add.
- Follow any further instructions as provided by the agent.
- Confirm your registration and payment details before leaving.
Post-Registration
Once you have successfully registered for the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), it is essential to keep your information up to date to ensure seamless access to healthcare services. Below are guidelines on how to manage your SHIF account effectively.
Updating Personal Information
To update your personal details, such as contact information, address, or employment status, log into your Afyangu account using your ID number and PIN. Then click on “My Profile” to update your information.
Adding or Removing Dependents
To remove or add dependants from your SHIF account, click on “Dependants” on the Afyangu account dashboard. You will be prompted to add or remove dependents by providing the necessary documents and information.
Checking Your Contribution Status
Log into your Afyangu account to check your contribution status at any time. On the dashboard, click on “Overview” to view your contribution history and the amount due for each month.
Next Steps: Enjoying the Benefits of SHIF
Congratulations! You have successfully registered for SHIF and are now a member of the Social Health Insurance Fund. As a SHIF member, you can access various healthcare services at designated health facilities across Kenya. These include inpatient and outpatient care, maternity care, emergency care, and more.
To enjoy these benefits, ensure that you make your monthly contributions on time to avoid service disruptions. You can also contact the SHIF customer care center for any inquiries or assistance with managing your account.
Together, let’s work towards improving access to quality healthcare for all Kenyans through the Social Health Insurance Fund.
