The Social Health Authority (SHA) has provided a structured guide for self-employed Kenyans to conduct means testing, a process essential for determining healthcare eligibility and premium contributions under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
Means testing helps assess households’ financial capability, particularly for those without a fixed income, by evaluating factors such as:
✔️ Access to basic services
✔️ Household composition
✔️ Housing conditions
Why Means Testing is Important
During a press briefing on February 5, 2025, Health Director-General Dr. Patrick Amoth highlighted that many Kenyans were being denied healthcare services due to skipping the means testing process.
“One challenge we are facing is that many people who register do not complete the process, including means testing,” Amoth noted.
Key Points from SHA on Means Testing
✔️ Self-employed Kenyans must complete means testing to determine their monthly SHA contributions.
✔️ Employed Kenyans are exempt since their SHA deductions are directly made from salaries.
✔️ A means-tested individual will contribute an average monthly premium of KSh592.
✔️ Failure to complete means testing may lead to denial of access to primary healthcare and emergency services.
The SHA has urged Kenyans to register early and complete means testing before requiring medical attention, to avoid delays in treatment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Conducting Means Testing
To successfully complete means testing, follow these steps:
1. Visit the SHA Portal
- Open your web browser and go to afyayangu.go.ke.
- Log in using your registered details.
2. Navigate to Your Profile
- Once logged in, locate the “My Profile” section.
3. Click on the “Income” Tab
- In your profile dashboard, select the “Income” tab.
4. Answer the Assessment Questions
- Provide details on your income, household composition, and socio-economic factors.
5. Receive Your SHA Contribution Amount
- Based on your responses, the SHA system will calculate your monthly or annual payable amount.
Support for Those Needing Assistance
If you experience challenges completing the process, community health promoters are available to assist with:
✔️ Registration on the SHA portal
✔️ Guidance through means testing
✔️ Clarifications on contribution calculations
Final Thoughts
Conducting means testing is crucial for self-employed Kenyans to ensure uninterrupted access to healthcare under SHA. By completing this process early, individuals can avoid treatment delays and ensure compliance with the national healthcare system.
For more details, visit afyayangu.go.ke or seek assistance from health service providers and community health promoters.
