Confusion surrounds the proposed Sh26 billion medical cover for tutors under the Social Health Authority (SHA), as internal documents raise questions on the costs and the range of services available.
The new scheme, which will cost taxpayers Sh11 billion more to cover the 400,000 teachers, has caused a split in the education sector, with some protesting the lack of proper consultation.
Union officials and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), however, said that those covered will not face higher deductions for the SHA scheme, with the taxpayers absorbing the additional Sh11 billion.
A union official, who requested anonymity so as to freely share confidential details, said that some of his colleagues who approved the deal are concerned that the SHA backlog of hospital debts, which has been a constant complaint since the new system was set up for all Kenyans, could eventually affect access to healthcare for teachers.
Pay delays have seen some hospitals deny service to patients unable to use private insurance or pay out of pocket.
The official added that if the new scheme does not take off smoothly, unions will invoke a clause in the contract to notify SHA of termination within 30 days.
The transition is anchored in the Public Officers Medical Scheme Fund Regul
Continue Reading on Daily Nation Kenya
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.