The Social Health Authority (SHA) has responded to a Daily Nation report alleging favoritism in cancer care approvals. SHA insists its oncology approval process is fully automated and denies claims of unequal treatment despite inconsistencies in patient approvals and concerns raised by medical experts.

• SHA stated on Tuesday, January 20, that approvals are generated automatically based on Legal Notice No. 56.
• The Daily Nation highlighted two breast cancer patients who paid the same Ksh6,000 premium but received different test approvals.
• Medical expert Dr Ahmed Kalebi criticized the system, noting SHA often approves only one diagnostic marker when several are required for comprehensive cancer care.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale convened a high-level meeting with the National Police Service (NPS), Kenya Prisons Service, and the Social Health Authority (SHA) to expedite the transfer of police and prison personnel from private medical insurers to the state-run Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), following a directive from President William Ruto.

• A joint technical team will be formed from the police, prisons, and SHA to finalize benefit packages and transition plans.
• The initiative aligns with the 5th Administration’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda to provide equitable and quality healthcare to all Kenyans.
• Senior officials present included Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga and SHA CEO Dr. Mercy Mwangangi.

Principal Secretary for Public Health Mary Muthoni has issued a stern warning against illegal hospital charges, particularly for services covered by the Social Health Authority (SHA). She emphasized the need for healthcare facilities to display a charter of services and prices to ensure transparency for patients.

• Most important fact or figure from the article: Institutions are charging patients for services that are free or covered by the SHA.
• Key person or organization involved: Principal Secretary for Public Health Mary Muthoni.
• Notable detail that adds context: This warning follows concerns raised by Health CS Aden Duale regarding scams charging Kenyans for free SHA registration.