Kenyans have been angered by a draft of new regulations by the government that have outlined consequences of not having an NHIF card.
According to National Health Insurance Fund Regulations, 2022 draft that was published by Health CS Mutahi Kagwe, any adult Kenyan not contributing to the health cover commits an offense and that attracts a fine of up to Kshs 20,000.
The draft further says that those seeking government services will be required to show proof of NHIF cover before accessing the services.
“Every person above 18 years of age shall be a registered contributor or beneficiary of NHIF when seeking government services. Anyone who does not register as a member commits an offense and shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 20,000,” reads the draft.
The regulations are part of reforms in the health sector to ensure that the government achieves the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
Services that majority of unregistered Kenyans would miss out on include; registration of title deeds, approval of development projects, registration of businesses among others.
This has not settled well with Kenyans who have taken to social media to raise their concerns with some wondering why the government would force such on Kenyans yet NHIF act allows for voluntary contributions.
“This is regressive reasoning. Why don’t they tax us through indirect taxes and fund health instead of threats. Will be hard to force a poor man pay for NHIF,” Reuben James tweeted.
“I wonder why the government provides services to its citizens with all the conditions that come with it. What if i want to try another insurance company?
Policy making and implementation is just something that we need to talk about.Anyway Karibu Kenya si Massai mara tu,” Prof. Mutua wrote.
“Eti fine? Kwani afya yangu inakuhusu mini?” Joseph Kigen posed.
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