Government Delays Sh11.2 Billion Payment, Teachers Struggle with Medical Services

Government Delays Sh11.2 Billion Payment, Teachers Struggle with Medical Services.

Teachers across Kenya are currently experiencing delays in accessing medical services under their health insurance scheme. This disruption stems from the government’s failure to remit Sh11.2 billion owed to the service provider between December and March.

Dr Nancy Macharia, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) CEO, confirmed that the Commission had settled payments only up to November 30 for the second year of the Minet-administered scheme. She explained that the outstanding amount has hindered smooth service delivery.

In addition to the delayed payments, Parliament has yet to approve Sh1.5 billion intended for the teachers’ Group Life insurance. Dr Macharia acknowledged that although the implementation of the scheme has largely been successful, its scale, operational complexities, and budget limitations have introduced certain difficulties.

“Yes, the system has its flaws, but our intention has always been to protect our teachers’ welfare,” said a senior TSC officer during a departmental briefing.

Minet Still Providing Services Despite Delays

Despite the government’s failure to pay, Minet has continued to serve teachers under the scheme. Dr Macharia urged teachers who are denied service due to pending payments to seek help at the nearest accredited facility within the panel.

To reduce service disruptions, the TSC has waived pre-authorisation for outpatient and emergency treatments and has expanded its call centre to handle increased demand. Furthermore, it has rolled out a countrywide ambulance and rescue service to support educators in urgent situations.

Macharia highlighted that the Commission’s contract management team consistently holds Minet accountable for timely service approvals to ensure prompt access to care for teachers.

“We follow up on every delay and insist on strict compliance with timelines,” an official from the Commission emphasized during a recent review meeting.

Coverage Details and Extended Benefits

The medical scheme offers a range of benefits, with inpatient cover between Sh1 million and Sh3 million and outpatient care from Sh150,000 to Sh450,000. Teachers also receive optical and dental coverage ranging between Sh45,000 and Sh60,000.

Maternity benefits are capped between Sh120,000 and Sh300,000, with the added provision of air evacuation for up to four dependents annually.

Read Also: TSC CEO Explains Why SHA Rejected Over 360,000 Teachers from Health Scheme

Additionally, the scheme allows teachers access to up to Sh2 million for overseas medical referrals and Sh200,000 for international travel expenses every year.

Dr Macharia reiterated that the policy includes high-cost medical procedures, advanced treatments, and chronic disease management. She assured that TSC remains committed to working with Minet to maintain uninterrupted access to medical services for teachers nationwide.

Government Delays Sh11.2 Billion Payment, Teachers Struggle with Medical Services.

Follow Teachers Updates on Facebook, LinkedIn, X (Twitter), WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram. Get in touch with our editors at [email protected].