- The Social Health Authority (SHA) will manage medical cover for National Police Service (NPS) and Kenya Prisons Service (KPS) officers, including their dependants, starting April 1, 2026.
- Existing medical schemes remain active until March 31 at 11:59 p.m., ensuring no gap in coverage.
- Officers are advised to update dependent records to avoid delays in accessing healthcare under the new system.
- SHA has deployed liaison officers, set up a dedicated hotline, and coordinated with healthcare providers to ensure uninterrupted services.
The Social Health Authority (SHA) has officially announced it will manage medical cover for officers of the National Police Service and Kenya Prisons Service, effective from midnight on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The transition includes eligible dependents, marking a major shift in the administration of healthcare for uniformed personnel.
“The Social Health Authority informs all officers and their eligible dependants that SHA will manage their medical cover effective 12:00 a.m. on 1st April 2026 under the Public Officers Medical Scheme Fund,” the authority stated in a notice issued on March 30.
SHA confirmed that the current medical scheme will remain active until the last minute before the transition, expiring at 11:59 p.m. on March 31. This arrangement ensures continuity of care, preventing any coverage gaps during the switch to the new system.
To facilitate a smooth handover, SHA has been coordinating with healthcare providers and relevant institutions. Officers currently receiving care, including hospitalised patients, will continue treatment uninterrupted, with arrangements made for those in non-contracted facilities to transfer to approved institutions.
The authority has directed all personnel to verify and update their declared dependants in the system. Accurate information is crucial for avoiding delays or complications when accessing medical services under the new SHA-managed scheme.
Liaison officers have been deployed across county offices to assist with queries, while a dedicated SHA hotline has been set up to provide additional support.
SHA also reiterated the legal obligation of employers to deduct and remit health contributions promptly. Employers must submit contributions on or before the 9th day of the following month to guarantee continued access to healthcare services for staff.
Employees are advised to monitor their SHA accounts regularly to ensure contributions are properly recorded. SHA has provided multiple online and in-person channels for members to check their status and report any discrepancies.
Mercy Mwangangi, SHA Chief Executive, emphasised that the authority has put in place all necessary measures to prevent service disruptions. “SHA is working with relevant institutions and healthcare providers to ensure a smooth and seamless transition, with no interruption in access to care,” the notice highlighted.
This proactive approach aims to safeguard the health of Kenya’s police and prison officers while improving efficiency and oversight of the national medical scheme.
