The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has invited teachers’ unions for discussions aimed at addressing ongoing concerns about the medical insurance cover for teachers.
The talks come after growing complaints from teachers about challenges with the current Mwalimu Comprehensive Cover under the Social Health Authority (SHA). One of the main issues raised is that some hospitals have reportedly capped outpatient services at Ksh 1,200 per visit, forcing teachers to pay extra costs out of pocket.
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has confirmed receiving the invitation and is expected to attend discussions in Mombasa to try and resolve the issues affecting the cover.
The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) had earlier issued a seven-day strike notice, warning that action could follow if the challenges with SHA are not addressed.
The current insurance scheme covers more than 413,000 teachers and about 807,000 dependents across the country. Teachers have in recent months been pushing for the reinstatement of the former AON Minet medical cover, saying it offered better services.
However, the government has defended the current system. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale dismissed claims that teachers are limited to Ksh 1,200 per day, saying the Mwalimu Cover is actually one of the most comprehensive public sector medical schemes.
According to the Ministry, the SHA system has also expanded access significantly, increasing the number of available healthcare facilities from about 800 under the previous cover to more than 9,600 facilities nationwide, including public, private, and faith-based hospitals.
The ongoing talks between TSC and unions are expected to focus on improving service delivery, addressing payment concerns, and stabilizing the medical cover for teachers and their dependents.
