SHA Announces Free Health Services Available to Beneficiaries

The Social Health Authority (SHA) has taken a major step toward affordable healthcare after rolling out a new initiative that allows Kenyans to receive essential medical services without paying out of pocket. The program, known as the Green Label Service Charter, is designed to ensure that registered SHA beneficiaries can access primary healthcare services at no cost.

The first health facility in the country to implement this program is Bomet Health Centre, which has officially been awarded the Green Label status. This means patients can visit the facility, receive treatment, and leave without being charged any fees.

The Green Label initiative is financed through the government’s Primary Healthcare Fund (PHCF). According to SHA, the goal is to remove financial barriers that prevent many Kenyans from seeking timely medical care. The charter clearly lists all services covered, helping patients understand their benefits and avoid hidden costs.

While unveiling the charter at Bomet Health Centre on Wednesday, January 21, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the initiative is meant to strengthen access to quality primary healthcare across the country. He noted that the government is committed to ensuring all Kenyans receive essential health services regardless of their financial status.

Under the program, eligible SHA beneficiaries can simply walk into a Green Label facility, get the medical attention they need, and walk out without paying. The entire cost is covered by the government through the PHCF, making healthcare more equitable and reliable.

SHA has confirmed that Bomet Health Centre is only the beginning. More public health facilities are expected to be accredited under the Green Label Service Charter in the coming months as the program is rolled out nationwide. Once fully implemented, thousands of Kenyans are expected to benefit from free, fully funded primary healthcare services.

Free health services available to SHA beneficiaries

SHA beneficiaries visiting a Green Label facility will access a wide range of services at no cost. These include medical consultations, diagnosis, and treatment for various conditions. Patients will also receive laboratory tests and imaging services such as ultrasounds without paying any fees.

Essential medicines are also covered under the program. These include painkillers, antibiotics, malaria drugs, and medication for chronic conditions such as high blood pressure. Screening services for diseases like diabetes, HIV, cancer, and mental health conditions are also provided for free.

In addition, beneficiaries can receive minor surgical procedures carried out under local anaesthesia. Maternal healthcare services are fully covered, including antenatal and postnatal care to support expectant and new mothers.

Family planning services are another key part of the Green Label package. SHA beneficiaries can access pills, injections, implants, condoms, and other contraceptive options at no cost. Children are also covered through free immunization services, including vaccines for polio, measles, BCG, tetanus, and other preventable diseases.

The program further covers treatment for common illnesses such as diarrhea, pneumonia, worm infections, skin diseases, and stomach-related conditions. Patients with long-term illnesses like tuberculosis (TB), diabetes, and hypertension will receive continuous care and follow-up services.

HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) services are also included. These range from testing and counselling to treatment, provision of ARVs, and referrals for specialized care when needed.

SHA has encouraged beneficiaries who need clarification or support to reach out through its toll-free number 147, email info@sha.go.ke, or follow official SHA social media platforms for updates.

With the Green Label Service Charter now in place, SHA says it is confident that access to free, quality primary healthcare will continue to expand, improving health outcomes for communities across Kenya.