Blog Details
Diskava. Beta. Kava
29Oct
How to Confirm Your SHA/SHIF Status Before Visiting a Hospital in Kenya — Avoid Delays at the Point of Service
Since the introduction of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and its Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), Kenyans have faced frustrating delays when seeking treatment. Many arrive at hospitals only to be told, “Your status is inactive” — a confusing and painful moment, especially when you or your loved one urgently needs care.
Let’s unpack this challenge and guide you on how to confirm your SHA/SHIF status before heading to a medical facility, both for yourself and for others you support — because health is one place where no Kenyan deserves surprises.
The Real Challenge: Delays and Unclear Activation
The SHA system replaced NHIF with a promise of better service and broader coverage. But rollout hitches have been real — unclear member verification, slow data syncing, and limited awareness have made even active contributors experience denial at hospitals.
For many Kenyans, especially those under employer schemes or voluntary contributions, the question remains:
“How do I confirm if my SHA/SHIF is active before I visit the hospital?”
✅ How to Check Your SHA/SHIF Status (For Yourself)
Here’s how to confirm your membership and activation status quickly:
- Via SMS/USSD:
- Send the word “STATUS” followed by your National ID Number to 1550 or 21101 (this is the official SHA SMS service). This be real slow to return status confirmation
- Example: STATUS 12345678 or ID 12345678
- You’ll receive an SMS response showing whether your SHA/SHIF membership is active, pending, or inactive.
- Dial *147# and follow the prompts
- Via SHA Portal (Online):
- Go to https://sha.go.ke or https://afyayangu.co.ke - this can only give status for self
- Click “Check Membership” or “Member Login.”
- Enter your ID number or SHA number to view your current status.
- Check eligibility/status via https://eligibility.sha.go.ke - this is real fast and can provide status for self and others
- Through the SHA Mobile App:
- Download the SHA Kenya app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Log in using your ID number and confirm whether your cover is active.
- At Your Nearest Hospital or SHA Office:
- Some accredited hospitals and county SHA offices can check your details instantly if you present your National ID or SHA Number.
How to Check for Another Person (Dependant)
If you’re checking for your spouse, child, or dependent, ensure that:
- They are registered under your SHA/SHIF account, and
- You use their ID number or SHA number when sending the SMS or using the online portal.
You can also confirm dependents under your account by logging in via the SHA Portal and viewing the “Dependents” section.
What to Do If Your Status Is Inactive or Pending
If your SHA/SHIF membership shows “Inactive”, here’s what to do:
- Confirm whether your contribution payment has gone through.
- Visit your nearest SHA branch or Huduma Centre to update records.
- For employer-based contributors, ask your HR department to confirm your remittance.
- For self-employed individuals, ensure your monthly contribution is up to date via Mpesa Paybill 222222, account number: your ID number.
Imana’s Perspective: The Gap Between Policy and Service
At Imana Insurance Kenya, we’ve observed a sharp rise in clients seeking private health insurance covers due to SHA/SHIF verification challenges. Many Kenyans are realizing the importance of having a reliable private backup cover that guarantees treatment — no delays, no confusion, no bureaucracy.
Imana’s experts often advise:
“SHA/SHIF is essential, but don’t rely on it alone. Get an affordable private medical insurance plan that complements it — whether for outpatient, inpatient, dental, optical, or maternity.”
With options starting from as low as KSh. 10,000 per year, you can get immediate access to hospitals across Kenya — no need to check if you’re active or not.
Where to Get Help
Imana Insurance Agency Kenya Ltd
Your trusted partner in navigating health insurance in Kenya.
We help you compare medical insurance plans, understand SHA, and get instant private cover quotations.
📞 Call/WhatsApp: 0113619635 | 0745218460 | 0113806810 / 0796209402
🌐 Websites: www.imana.co.ke | www.mykava.co.ke
📍 Location: 4th Floor, Krishna Centre, Woodvale Grove, Westlands, Nairobi.