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SHA has directed parents and guardians to register students who have attained the age of 18 years as members before adding them as dependants to continue accessing healthcare services.
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The authority clarified that learners who turn 18 no longer qualify for automatic dependant coverage. Instead, they must first be registered as SHA members before being linked to the accounts of their parents or legal guardians.
The Social Health Authority (SHA) has directed parents and guardians to register students who have attained the age of 18 years as members before adding them as dependants to continue accessing healthcare services under the national health insurance scheme.
In a statement issued on July 6, 2026, SHA clarified that learners who turn 18 no longer qualify for automatic dependant coverage. Instead, they must first be registered as SHA members before being linked to the accounts of their parents or legal guardians.
The directive affects thousands of learners in secondary schools, technical and vocational institutions, colleges and universities who have reached the age of majority while still pursuing their studies.
SHA said the registration requirement is intended to ensure eligible students continue receiving healthcare services without interruption as they complete their education.
To facilitate the process, parents and guardians will be required to submit proof that the learner is enrolled in a recognised educational institution.
Acceptable documents include a valid admission letter, a current student identification card, a school confirmation letter or any other official proof of enrolment approved by the authority.
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According to SHA, the verification process is designed to ensure that only eligible learners benefit from dependant coverage while enhancing the accuracy and integrity of the national health insurance database.
The authority added that maintaining updated member records will strengthen healthcare financing, improve planning and support efficient delivery of health services across the country.
Once a learner has been successfully registered and verified, the parent or guardian can proceed with adding the student as a dependant, allowing them to continue accessing treatment at SHA-contracted health facilities under the benefits provided by the scheme.
The clarification comes as the government continues implementing health financing reforms through SHA, which replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
The directive is expected to provide timely guidance to families whose children have recently turned 18 while still in school, helping them avoid disruptions in medical cover that could arise if the required registration is not completed.
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Education stakeholders have consistently underscored the importance of uninterrupted healthcare for learners, noting that access to medical services supports school attendance, academic performance and the overall well-being of students.
By Hillary Muhalya
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