The Social Health Authority (SHA) has invited overseas hospitals and medical facilities to provide specialized treatments unavailable in Kenya. The advertisement was released on December 31, 2025, giving providers 14 days to apply. It aims to serve beneficiaries of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), Primary Healthcare Fund (PHC), Emergency, Chronic and Critical Illness Fund (ECCIF), and Public Officers Medical Scheme Fund (POMSF).
To address gaps in Kenya's domestic healthcare system, the government has launched a new initiative through the Social Health Authority (SHA) allowing Kenyans to access specialized treatments abroad. An official advertisement released on December 31, 2025, calls on overseas healthcare providers to submit applications within 14 days via the authority's channels.
The move relies on a list of medical conditions unavailable locally, compiled by the Benefits Package and Tariffs Advisory Panel. Interested providers must hold valid accreditation from their home countries and gain recognition from Kenyan authorities. They also need to partner with Kenyan facilities classified as Level V or VI under the Kenya Essential Package for Health (KEPH).
For SHIF beneficiaries, services will be limited to the approved list for the next seven years. POMSF members, however, can access extra specialized care through negotiations between SHA and providers. Covered costs include evaluations, lab tests, imaging, treatments, accommodation, and medical transfers.
"SHA reserves the right to verify submitted information, negotiate tariffs, and continuously empanel overseas facilities during the contract cycle," said Dr. Mercy Mwangangi, SHA's Chief Executive Officer. The invitation remains open for periodic updates, with successful providers to be listed in the Kenya Gazette and on the SHA website.