How to Register with SHA Social Health Authority of Kenya

The Social Health Authority (SHA) in Kenya is a transformative government initiative established under the Social Health Insurance Act of 2023 to replace the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). SHA aims to provide affordable, equitable, and high-quality healthcare to all Kenyan residents through the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), promoting Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Registration with SHA is mandatory for all Kenyan citizens and lawful residents, ensuring access to comprehensive healthcare services, including preventive, curative, maternity, and chronic illness care. This article provides a step-by-step guide to registering with SHA using various methods, along with key information about the process and requirements.

Why Register with SHA?

SHA is designed to reduce the financial burden of medical expenses by pooling contributions from individuals and employers. It offers a range of benefits, including:

• Inpatient and Outpatient Care: Coverage for hospital stays and consultations.
• Maternity Services: Support for expectant mothers, including delivery and newborn care.
• Chronic Disease Management: Treatment for conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
• Preventive Care: Vaccinations, health screenings, and wellness programs.
• Emergency and Critical Care: Access to urgent medical services and specialized treatments.

By registering, you secure healthcare access for yourself and your dependents, contributing to Kenya’s goal of a healthier, more equitable society.

Who Needs to Register?

Every Kenyan citizen and lawful resident must register with SHA within 90 days of the regulations taking effect. This includes:

• Adults: Kenyan citizens with a National ID or foreign residents with a Foreign Resident Certificate or Refugee ID.
• Children: Dependents require a birth certificate or documentation from the state department for social protection if no ID is available.
• Employers: Businesses must register employees and remit contributions.
• Self-Employed Individuals: Required to make direct contributions based on a means test, with payments as low as Ksh300 for disadvantaged individuals.

Registration Methods

SHA offers multiple registration options to ensure accessibility, including online registration, USSD code, and in-person assistance. Below are detailed steps for each method.

1. Online Registration via the SHA Website or Afya Yangu Portal

Online registration is convenient for those with internet access and requires a device like a smartphone or computer. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the SHA Website or Afya Yangu Portal:

   • Go to https://sha.go.ke or https://afyayangu.go.ke using a web browser.
   • On the SHA homepage, click “Register” or “Register Individual.” On the Afya Yangu Portal, select “Register for Universal Health Care (UHC) and SHA” and click “Proceed.”

2. Enter Personal Details:

   • Select your ID type (Kenyan Citizen, Foreign Resident, or Refugee).
   • Input your National ID number, passport number, or other identification details.
   • Provide your phone number and first name. Ensure the phone number is active, as it will receive a One-Time Password (OTP).

3. Verify Your Identity:

   • Request an OTP by clicking “Send OTP.” Enter the code received on your phone.
   • Create and confirm a 4-digit PIN for your account.

4. Complete Your Profile:

   • Upload a photo (JPG, JPEG, or PNG format).
   • Provide additional details, such as your county of residence and dependents’ information (if applicable).
   • Review the SHA terms and conditions, check the agreement box, and submit.

5. Receive Confirmation:

   • Await a confirmation message via SMS or email indicating successful registration. Your SHA account is now active, and you can access healthcare services upon making contributions.

Note: Ensure all details are accurate to avoid issues. If you encounter challenges, contact SHA at 0800 720 601 or email info@sha.go.ke.

2. USSD Registration via *147#

The *147# USSD code is ideal for those without internet access, as it works on any mobile phone with an active Kenyan SIM card. Here’s how to register:

1. **Dial *147#**:

   • Open your phone’s dialer and enter *147#.

2. Select Registration Type:

   • Choose “Option 1” for Kenyan citizens or “Option 2” for foreign residents.

3. Enter Identification Details:

   • Input your National ID number, passport number, or birth certificate number for children.
   • Provide your first name and select the first letter of your county of residence (e.g., “N” for Nairobi).

4. Accept Terms and Conditions:

   • Respond with “Option 1” to agree to SHA’s terms.

5. Confirm and Submit:

   • Verify the entered details and submit.
   • Wait for an SMS confirming successful registration.

This method is quick, free, and accessible, making it ideal for rural areas.

3. In-Person Registration at Huduma Centres or SHA Agents

For those who prefer assistance or lack digital access, in-person registration is available at Huduma Centres or authorized SHA agents.

1. Visit a Huduma Centre or SHA Agent:

   • Locate the nearest Huduma Centre or SHA branch (e.g., NHIF Building, Ragati Road, Upper Hill, Nairobi).

2. Provide Required Documents:

   • Adults: National ID or Foreign Resident Certificate/Refugee ID.
   • Children: Birth certificate or documentation from the state department for social protection.
   • Proof of residence or employment may be required.

3. Complete the Registration Form:

   • An agent will capture your details, including civil status and dependents.
   • Review the information for accuracy.

4. Biometric Data Collection:

   • Your biometric data (e.g., fingerprints) may be recorded to finalize registration.

5. Receive Confirmation:

   • You’ll receive a confirmation of your SHA membership, enabling access to healthcare services upon payment.

Tip: Community Health Promoters (CHPs) can also assist with registration in remote areas.

Employer Registration

Employers must register their employees via the SHA Employer Portal (https://sha.go.ke):

1. Create an Employer Account:

   • Navigate to the employer section and provide business details, such as the Business Registration Certificate.

2. Register Employees:

   • Enter employee details, including names, ID numbers, and dependents.
   • Submit and verify the account via email or phone instructions.

3. Manage Contributions:

   • Remit contributions at 2.75% of each employee’s gross salary. Payments after November 9, 2024, are credited to SHA.

Contributions and Means Testing

SHA employs a graduated payment structure based on a mandatory means test to determine contributions:

• Self-Employed: Contributions range from Ksh300 for disadvantaged individuals to higher amounts for wealthier members.
• Employed: Contributions are deducted via payroll at 2.75% of gross salary.
• Vulnerable Populations: The government subsidizes contributions for indigents and those in lawful custody.

Failure to make contributions may lead to suspended benefits, so ensure timely payments.

Common Challenges and Solutions

• Technical Issues: If the Afya Yangu Portal is slow or unresponsive, try again later or use the USSD code.
• OTP Not Received: Verify your phone number and ensure network connectivity. Contact SHA support if issues persist.
• Document Issues: If children lack IDs, obtain documentation from the state department for social protection.
• Payment Difficulties: Use M-Pesa or other approved methods for contributions, and check for system downtimes.

For assistance, call SHA’s toll-free number 0800 720 601, email customercare@sha.go.ke, or visit a Huduma Centre or SHA branch.

Registering with the Social Health Authority (SHA) is a crucial step toward accessing affordable healthcare in Kenya. Whether you choose online registration, the *147# USSD code, or in-person assistance, the process is designed to be inclusive and straightforward. By enrolling, you contribute to Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage goals and secure peace of mind for you and your family. Don’t delay—register today via https://sha.go.ke, dial *147#, or visit a Huduma Centre to start enjoying SHA’s comprehensive healthcare benefits.