Kenyan teachers protest as health insurance switch sparks healthcare access fears
The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Bungoma branch has voiced its disapproval of the government's recent decision to shift teachers from the AON Minet health insurance cover to the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme. The branch has also expressed concerns about the transition process and the potential impact on teachers' access to healthcare.
The Bungoma branch of KUPPET has announced its intention to enroll its members in the SHA medical scheme following the government's switch from AON Minet. However, teachers in the region have expressed frustrations with the transition process, citing long wait times and pre-authorization delays that have led to unnecessary suffering when they fall ill.
David Barasa, the Bungoma branch Chairperson of KUPPET, has criticized the national leadership for supporting the government's move. He argues that they should enroll in the SHA scheme themselves if they believe it is the best option. Barasa has also declared his intention to contest for the Bungoma Executive Secretary's position in the upcoming KUPPET elections scheduled for February 2026, promising to champion improved accountability, transparency, and welfare for teachers in the county if elected.
Teachers expect enhanced coverage, increased funding allocations, and access to quality healthcare facilities, including private hospitals, from the SHA scheme. However, many are concerned that the new scheme might worsen their already dire situation regarding access to healthcare services. To facilitate instant treatment and make healthcare access more efficient and transparent, teachers should be issued with smart cards for cashless transactions.
The Bungoma branch of KUPPET has criticized the government's decision to transfer teachers to the SHA scheme, citing concerns about the transition process and potential impact on teachers' access to healthcare. Despite these concerns, teachers expect enhanced coverage and access to quality healthcare facilities from the SHA scheme. The Social Health Authority has the potential to improve medical coverage if properly implemented, but the current system must be restructured to meet the specific needs of teachers.
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