President William Ruto made a groundbreaking proposal aimed at fostering equality in healthcare payment through the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF).

The proposal, which outlines a revised payment structure, intends to ensure that all Kenyans have access to quality healthcare services without discrimination or financial burden.

Under the new plan, the president announced on Monday, contributors in salaried employment will be required to pay a fixed contribution of 2.75 per cent of their gross monthly income earned in the preceding month.

"A contributor in salaried employment shall pay a standard contribution at a rate of 2.75% of the gross monthly income derived from employment in the preceding month," the proposal reads.

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According to Ruto, this standardized rate aims to create a fair and equitable system for all salaried employees, promoting a sense of shared responsibility in supporting the national insurer.

For contributors in self-employment, the proposal suggests a special contribution rate of 2.75 per cent of their declared or assessed gross monthly income.

"A contributor in self-employment shall pay a special contribution to the Fund at a rate of 2.75% of the declared or assessed gross monthly income of the contributor," the proposal continued.

This provision recognizes the unique circumstances faced by self-employed individuals and seeks to establish parity in their contributions.

In a move to ensure that healthcare coverage is accessible to all, even the unemployed, the proposal mandates a monthly contribution of Sh1,000.

"A contributor who is not employed or listed as an indigent person or vulnerable person shall pay a monthly contribution of one thousand shillings," the proposal reads in part.

This measure aims to generate funds that will contribute to the realization of universal health coverage, enabling those currently without employment to receive essential medical care.

However, the government has assured that unemployed individuals who are classified as vulnerable will be exempted from paying for insurance and it will bear the cost of their contributions.

The proposal further states that the  State Department responsible for social protection will compile a list of indigent and vulnerable persons, and the National Government will cover their contributions at a rate of Sh13,300.

The proposed changes to NHIF payment structure reflect President Ruto's commitment to achieving healthcare equality for all Kenyans.

By implementing a fair and balanced system, the government aims to eliminate disparities and ensure that every citizen has access to essential healthcare services, regardless of their employment status or financial capabilities.

If approved, these reforms will mark a significant milestone in Kenya's journey toward universal health coverage, promoting inclusivity and uplifting the welfare of all its citizens.

The proposal will now proceed to relevant authorities for further deliberation and potential implementation.