The Ministry of Health has set up the Benefits Package and Tariffs Advisory Panel (BPTAP) to oversee the rollout of Kenya’s Social Health Insurance (SHA) program.
The panel will play a crucial role in ensuring Kenyans receive quality healthcare through a fair and financially sustainable system.
Speaking at a media briefing, Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa said the newly formed panel would provide expert recommendations on healthcare benefits, pricing, and service tariffs.
“The panel will serve as a critical advisory body to guide decisions around the Social Health Program,” Dr. Barasa stated.
The panel, housed at the Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (CEMA) at the University of Nairobi, consists of specialists in health economics, epidemiology, actuarial science, and health sciences.
It will assess healthcare services, advise on pricing, and track the impact of the SHA program to ensure continuous improvement.
Dr. Barasa emphasized the importance of an evidence-based approach in shaping healthcare reforms, noting that the panel will conduct rigorous Health Technology Assessments (HTAs) to prioritize cost-effective and high-impact interventions.
She added that the panel’s work would enhance transparency and accountability, ensuring healthcare policies align with the needs of all Kenyans.
The establishment of the advisory panel is a major step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and removing financial barriers to healthcare. The government, in partnership with key stakeholders, remains committed to creating a healthcare system that upholds equity, affordability, and sustainability.
Dr. Barasa confirmed that the panel would begin its work immediately, with a comprehensive review of the benefits package expected within two years.
She reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening Kenya’s health system and ensuring the SHA program adapts to emerging healthcare challenges.
The announcement comes at a time when Kenya is intensifying its preparedness against emerging disease threats, including the Mpox outbreak in Kenya, the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) situation in Uganda, and the Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak in Tanzania.
Dr. Barasa reassured the public that Kenya remains vigilant, with enhanced surveillance and response measures in place to safeguard public health.
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