The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has called on the government to urgently address challenges affecting the Social Health Authority (SHA) medical insurance scheme, warning that teachers should be reverted to the previous Minet cover if the issues persist.
Speaking at a burial ceremony in Kwanza, Trans Nzoia County, KUPPET West Pokot County Secretary Alfred Kamuto said many teachers are struggling to access medical services due to difficulties in implementing the new health insurance plan.
“The current SHA system is not working effectively for teachers. Many are unable to access treatment when they need it most, and this is putting their lives at risk. The government must act immediately or return us to the Minet scheme, which was more reliable,” Kamuto said.
His sentiments were echoed by KUPPET coordinator Patrick Sulel, who noted that the situation has left teachers in distress, with some forced to pay for medical services out of pocket despite regular insurance deductions.
“It is unacceptable that teachers are contributing monthly to a health scheme that does not guarantee them services. Some are now digging into their own pockets to get treatment, which defeats the purpose of having medical insurance,” Sulel said.
READ ALSO: KUPPET Uasin Gishu issues 7-day ultimatum over SHA Medical Cover concerns
The leaders spoke during the burial of Mana Lenah Khatenge, mother to Totum Mixed Secondary School Principal Julius Natoka, in Kwanza.
KUPPET officials now want the government to streamline the SHA system to ensure seamless access to healthcare services, warning that failure to act could trigger nationwide discontent among teachers.
By Osborne Manyengo
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