How to Register Your Child on the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF)?

This guide covers how to Register Your Child on the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) In an effort to enhance access to healthcare for all Kenyan citizens, the government has mandated that parents register their school-going children as dependents under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

This requirement must be fulfilled before the third term begins on August 26. If you’re a parent or guardian, ensuring your child is enrolled is crucial for their continued healthcare coverage.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the registration process, whether you’re opting for online, mobile USSD code, or in-person registration. # Register Your Child on the Social Health Insurance Fund

Overview of SHIF

Introduced on March 1, 2024, the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) was created to replace the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) with a more inclusive, modernized healthcare system.

SHIF aims to provide broader health services to all Kenyans, including both employed and unemployed individuals.

For parents, the main objective is to ensure that their children are registered as dependents to gain access to the expansive range of services offered, from routine medical care to specialized treatments.

Why Register Your Child on SHIF ( Social Health Insurance Fund )?

Registering your child under SHIF is not just about compliance with government regulations. It is an important step to secure their access to quality healthcare, which includes outpatient care, inpatient services, emergency medical services, and more.

With the rising cost of healthcare, SHIF provides peace of mind by ensuring that your child’s health is protected under a reliable insurance scheme. # Social Health Insurance Fund

Eligibility Criteria for SHIF Registration

Before proceeding with the registration, ensure you meet the following requirements:

• Kenyan Citizenship: You must be a Kenyan citizen or legal resident.
• Age: The principal member, usually the parent or guardian, must be at least 18 years old.
• Identification: You will need a valid Kenyan national ID or passport.

Required Documents for SHIF Registration

To successfully register yourself and your dependents, gather the following documents:

For Principal Members:

• National ID or passport.
• A recent passport-sized colored photograph.
• Proof of income, such as a payslip, bank statement, or KRA PIN certificate.

For Dependents (Children):

• Birth certificate or adoption papers as proof of relationship.
• Recent photographs of the child(ren).

How to Register Your Child on the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF)

There are three primary methods for SHIF registration: through a USSD code, online, or by visiting an authorized agent. # Social Health Insurance Fund

Here’s how to navigate each option:

Option 1: USSD Code Registration

You can register using your mobile phone by following these simple steps:

1. Dial *147# on your phone.
2. Enter your National ID Number when prompted.
3. Provide personal information, including your name and date of birth.
4. Add your dependents by providing their birth certificates or relevant documents.
5. Confirm all details and submit the registration.

Option 2: Online Registration

If you prefer online registration, follow these steps:

1. Visit the SHIF Website: Go to the official SHIF website at sha.go.ke.
2. Create an Account: Click the “Register” button, fill in your details, and accept the Terms and Conditions.
3. Verify Your Account: Enter the One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your phone.
4. Complete Your Profile: After verification, update your profile with your photo, employment details, and civil status.
5. Register Dependents: Add your child’s details, including their birth certificate, to complete the process.

Option 3: In-Person Registration

If you prefer face-to-face assistance:

1. Locate a SHIF Agent: Find the nearest authorized SHIF registration center.
2. Visit the Agent’s Office: Request help with registration and provide your documents.
3. Submit Documents: Submit your ID, photographs, KRA PIN, and birth certificates for dependents.
4. Confirm Registration: Double-check the information with the agent and finalize your registration.

Managing Your SHIF Account

Once you’ve registered, managing your SHIF account is crucial to ensure ongoing access to healthcare services.

Here’s how you can keep it updated:

• Update Personal Information: Log into your Afyangu account and update contact details, address, or employment status.
• Add or Remove Dependents: Through the Afyangu portal, navigate to the “Dependents” section to update details about your children or spouse.
• Check Contribution Status: Ensure your contributions are up to date by checking the payment history in your account.

Benefits of SHIF Membership

By enrolling your child in SHIF, you’re granting them access to a wide range of healthcare services:

• Outpatient and Inpatient Care: From doctor visits to hospital admissions, SHIF covers essential medical services.
• Maternity Care: SHIF offers comprehensive prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care.
• Emergency Services: Access to emergency medical services at approved facilities nationwide.
• Specialized Treatment: Coverage for chronic conditions and specialized treatments like surgeries or dialysis.

Conclusion

Registering your child under SHIF is not only a legal requirement but a critical step in safeguarding their health. This new, expansive system replaces NHIF with better coverage and more accessible services for all Kenyans.

By following this guide, you can complete the registration process with ease, ensuring your child has access to quality healthcare services for years to come. Don’t wait—secure your child’s future by registering today.