The Social Health Authority (SHA) in Kenya plays a crucial role in managing the country’s healthcare system through the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). This initiative is part of the government’s plan to provide universal health coverage (UHC) to all Kenyan citizens. Thus, ensuring access to affordable and quality healthcare services. One of the primary benefits of being registered with SHA is the ability to receive medical care at accredited hospitals across the country.
However, with so many healthcare providers available, it is essential to know how to check which hospitals are part of the SHA network. This guide will explain the steps you need to follow to find hospitals on SHA. Hence, ensuring that you can receive the medical care you need when you need it.
Why Checking Hospitals on SHA is Important
Before accessing healthcare services, it is vital to ensure that the hospital you intend to visit is accredited by the SHA. Hospitals accredited by SHA are part of a nationwide network, allowing members to use their SHA membership for services covered by the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). This ensures that you receive care without the worry of high medical bills. Notably, as the SHIF helps cover most, if not all, of the associated costs.
Additionally, knowing which hospitals are accredited helps you avoid any inconvenience or delays in accessing care. Especially, as non-accredited hospitals may not accept SHA members or provide the same level of services.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Check Hospitals on SHA
1. Access the Official SHA Portal
The first step in checking accredited hospitals on SHA is to access the official SHA portal. To do this, visit https://sha.go.ke. This portal is designed to provide users with a comprehensive view of their SHA membership, including hospitals where they can access care.
Ensure you have a good internet connection and a device such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer to navigate the website.
2. Log In or Create an Account
Once you’re on the SHA website, you’ll need to log in to your account. If you already have an account, enter your username and password to access your dashboard.
If you’re new to SHA, click on the “Sign Up” button and follow the instructions to create your account. You’ll be required to provide personal information such as:
- Full name
- ID number
- Phone number and email address
- Password creation
After creating an account, you can log in to check your SHA membership details, including the list of accredited hospitals.
3. Navigate to the Hospitals Section
After successfully logging in, navigate to the section titled “Hospitals” or “Accredited Healthcare Providers.” This section is usually found on the main dashboard or within the Healthcare Services tab. The SHA portal is user-friendly, so you should be able to locate it easily.
4. Search for Hospitals by Location
To make your search more efficient, you can filter hospitals by location. The SHA platform allows users to search for accredited hospitals based on their region or county. This makes it easy for members to find healthcare providers close to their home or workplace.
Simply enter your county or town in the search bar, and the system will generate a list of accredited hospitals in your area. You can further narrow down your search by selecting specific hospital types, such as public hospitals, private hospitals, or mission hospitals.
5. Check for Specific Hospital Services
SHA members often require specific services, such as maternity care, chronic disease management, or surgical procedures. The SHA portal allows you to filter hospitals based on the type of services they offer. This way, you can ensure that the hospital you choose provides the medical care you need.
For example, if you are looking for maternity services, you can use the filter to show only hospitals offering this type of care. Similarly, if you need specialized services like dialysis or oncology, the SHA portal will help you find accredited hospitals offering these treatments.
6. Use the SHA App to Check Hospitals on the Go
For those who prefer checking hospitals via their mobile devices, SHA has an official app that can be downloaded from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. The app offers all the functionalities of the online portal, including the ability to check accredited hospitals.
Here’s how to do it:
- Download the SHA app from your respective app store.
- Log in using your SHA account credentials.
- Navigate to the “Hospitals” section within the app.
- Use filters to search for hospitals based on location, services, or type of hospital.
The app makes it easy for members to find hospitals while on the go, providing flexibility and convenience.
Additional Tips for Using SHA Hospitals
- Always Confirm Your Membership Status: Before visiting a hospital, log into the SHA portal or app to confirm your membership status and ensure that your contributions are up to date.
- Carry Your SHA Membership Number: When visiting a hospital, be sure to carry your SHA membership number. This number is used to verify your eligibility for services covered under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
- Ask About Additional Services: While most SHA-accredited hospitals provide general healthcare services, some may offer additional specialized care. It’s always a good idea to ask about the specific services available at your chosen hospital.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check accredited hospitals on SHA is essential for every Kenyan citizen registered under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). The SHA portal and SHA app offer a convenient and efficient way to find hospitals near you. Thus, ensuring that you receive the medical care you need. With SHA’s user-friendly platform, you can easily search for hospitals based on location, services, or type of care, providing peace of mind when accessing healthcare services.
Visit https://sha.go.ke today to check the list of hospitals in your region. Ensure that you are prepared to access quality, affordable healthcare in 2024.