NHIF allows patients to have a choice on outpatient facility

It is a relief for Kenyans as they will now get outpatient treatment in any facility when using the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF).

However, the hospital needs to “on preferences basis from a list of designated facilities provided by the fund countrywide effective from 1st of Nov 2017.”
Initially, NHIF beneficiaries were required to select hospitals that they can easily access for outpatient services.

In a statement, NHIF says it is responding to needs of beneficiaries while adapting to changing market dynamics.

“The funds is responding to the needs of its beneficiaries and at the same time adapting to the changing market dynamics while promoting the aspiration to universal health care coverage with a view to facilitating access to affordable, sustainable, equitable and quality social health insurance,” said NHIF chief executive Geoffrey Mwangi.

Further, the members will no longer co-pay as was the case previously and will continue enjoying the same benefits package.

“Members shall be informed upon visiting the facility arrangement for healthcare delivery as engaged by NHIF.

“Hospitals that have not yet signed the contract as at 1st November should not offer services until they sign,” said Geoffrey Mwangi, Chief Executive Officer NHIF.