The Social Health Authority in Kenya has announced that current contracts for healthcare providers and facilities offering services under the authority will expire on September 30, 2026. Providers wishing to continue offering services to SHA beneficiaries have been urged to apply for new contracts and complete the contracting process before October 1, 2026. This move aims to ensure uninterrupted services for beneficiaries.
According to SHA CEO Dr. Mercy Mwangangi, providers without an executed contract for the 2026–2029 cycle will not be permitted to offer services to SHA beneficiaries after the expiration date. Their access to the SHA provider portal will be switched off, affecting their ability to provide services to beneficiaries. This step is crucial in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the healthcare services provided under the SHA.
Providers that have not completed the contracting process have been advised to arrange for the transfer of patients receiving ongoing care to contracted facilities. This ensures continuity of treatment and minimizes disruptions to beneficiaries. The SHA emphasizes the importance of completing outstanding contracting requirements promptly to avoid interruptions to services.
The contracting process for the 2026–2029 cycle is a critical step for healthcare providers who wish to continue offering services under the SHA. By urging providers to apply for new contracts, the SHA aims to maintain a robust network of healthcare providers. This network is essential for delivering quality healthcare services to beneficiaries across Kenya.
Dr. Mwangangi stressed that all providers are urged to complete outstanding contracting requirements promptly. This urgency is necessary to avoid interruptions to services for beneficiaries, ensuring that they continue to receive necessary medical care without disruption. The SHA is working to ensure a seamless transition for providers and beneficiaries alike.
The expiration of current contracts and the introduction of new contracts for the 2026–2029 cycle reflect the SHA's ongoing efforts to improve and streamline healthcare services. By regularly reviewing and updating contracts, the SHA can better manage healthcare provision and ensure that services meet the evolving needs of beneficiaries.
Healthcare providers in Kenya who offer services under the SHA must take immediate action to renew their contracts. Failure to do so will result in the termination of their services to SHA beneficiaries and access to the SHA provider portal. The SHA continues to work with providers to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure continued access to quality healthcare services.
Key points
- Providers must apply for new contracts by October 1, 2026, to continue offering services to SHA beneficiaries.
- Contracts for healthcare providers under the SHA will expire on September 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
- Providers without a new contract will have their access to the SHA provider portal switched off.
