In a few days' time, Kenyans with NHIF cover will be able to access mental health treatment. 

3 weeks ago, President Uhuru Kenyatta announced that NHIF would be expanding its coverage to include mental health.

The Head of State declared this during the groundbreaking ceremony of a mental wellness hospital in Kajiado County, which he said was part of a raft of measures by the government to address the mental health monster.

“As I lay the foundation stone for this seminal facility, I urge every Kenyan suffering from mental health challenges to seek assistance from the expanding network of facilities and services.

"Let therapy and mental health check-ups be a regular part of our health care, just as regular check-ups are the norm for physical health," Uhuru said.

Consequently,  the Health Ministry has now included mental health care in the newly enhanced medical scheme offered by the National Hospital Insurance Fund.

Here is what to know about the enhanced benefits:

-Patients will receive services in over 7,000 facilities across the country.

-The Health Ministry says rates of treatment have been standardized for services offered by NHIF.

-The expanded cover has a comprehensive and non-comprehensive cover.

-It is a two-year contract signed between the ministry, private hospitals, and NHIF.

-In the comprehensive covers, members will be treated without paying a single cent while non-comprehensive members will be required to top up.

-The new benefits will start on July 11, 2022, as part of the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

-There is a bonus. The two-year contract also includes expanded oncology benefits comprising bone scans, radionuclide therapy, and access to Positron Emission Tomography (PET).

Check out the latest news here and you are welcome to join our super exclusive Mpasho Telegram group for all the latest and breaking news in entertainment. We would also like to hear from you, WhatsApp us on +254 736 944935.