By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, April 28, 2026 - For many teachers, a visit to hospital has often come with uncertainty, and extra costs. That could now change.
The government and the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) have reached an agreement to fix long-standing challenges in the teachers’ medical scheme, paving the way for smoother and more predictable access to healthcare.
The deal, struck after a consultative meeting led by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, focuses on removing barriers that had disrupted services under the transition to the Social Health Authority (SHA).
Duale said the talks were aimed at “resolving challenges in the transition of the Mwalimu Medical Scheme… with the goal of streamlining service delivery and safeguarding access to care for teachers.”
At the centre of the agreement is a zero co-payment policy, meaning teachers will no longer be required to pay out-of-pocket when seeking treatment at approved facilities. Hospitals have been directed not to charge any additional fees.
The parties also agreed to address gaps that had slowed down service delivery, including access to specialised care. Discussions covered areas such as overseas treatment, IVF services and support for chronic conditions.
“We also addressed emerging implementation gaps, with a shared commitment to improving quality and access to healthcare,” Duale added.
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In a move to strengthen emergency care, the government will roll out a decentralised national ambulance service under SHA to improve response and referrals.
To ensure the system runs smoothly, stakeholders agreed to hold regular follow-up meetings. “Quarterly engagements have been agreed upon to sustain coordination and resolve emerging issues,” Duale said.
The agreement was formalised through a joint communiqué signed by the Ministry of Health, SHA and KNUT leadership, signalling a unified approach to stabilising the scheme.
The breakthrough comes just days after a similar deal with KUPPET, suggesting a broader effort to restore confidence in the teachers’ health cover and ensure they can access care without added financial strain.