The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) in Bomet has called on the government to expand the new Social Health Authority (SHA) medical cover to cater more comprehensively for teachers and their families.
Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kapset in Konoin Sub-county, Bomet KUPPET branch chairman Ernest Kirui said many teachers continue to struggle to access quality and specialized healthcare under the current scheme.
Kirui noted that the new SHA scheme should not have gaps in coverage and limited access to specialized services creating challenges to the educators.
“Teachers deserve a comprehensive and reliable healthcare system that covers all their medical needs, including specialized treatment, mental health, and chronic illnesses,” said Kirui.
He added: “We appreciate government efforts to transit to SHA, but the package should favour our members.”
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He added that the teachers should not be forced to dig deep into their pockets for referrals and specialized care that are not included in the standard SHA package.
“A teacher should not have to choose between getting treatment and paying school fees for their children. Healthcare is a fundamental right, and the SHA must ensure it serves every teacher, he is served fairly.”
The KUPPET official also urged the Ministry of Health to work closely with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the unions to ensure the benefits under SHA are enhanced to suit the teachers.
“We are proposing a structured engagement between the SHA secretariat, TSC, and teachers’ unions to identify gaps and expand coverage,” he added.
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On the current stand-off between AGC Tenwek Hospital and MINET, Kirui said it was unacceptable that many teachers continue to be turned away from the hospital due to unresolved issues with MINET and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), the contracted insurer.
He said teachers were frustrated to find that despite monthly deductions from their salaries, they are not receiving the services they rightfully deserve.
“It is disheartening that teachers, who are faithfully contributing to the medical scheme, cannot access treatment at major hospitals like AGC Tenwek under the Minet cover. This situation has left many of our members stranded or forced to pay out of pocket,” Kirui lamented.
By our reporter
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