The Social Health Authority CEO Dr Mercy Mwangangi/FILE
The Social Health Authority (SHA) has urged healthcare providers, beneficiaries and members of the public to remain vigilant against fraudsters impersonating its officials and offering to facilitate access to its services in exchange for money.

In a public notice issued by CEO Mercy Mwangangi, SHA said it had received reports of individuals falsely presenting themselves as SHA officers and claiming they could fast-track claims processing, registration among other services.

The authority warned that the individuals are fraudsters and urged members of the public not to engage with them.

"The Social Health Authority (SHA) has received reports of individuals falsely presenting themselves as SHA officers and offering to facilitate claims processing, payments, accreditation, registration, or other SHA services," Mwangangi said.

She emphasised that it does not demand money, gifts, commissions or any other form of payment to expedite its services.

"SHA does not solicit money, gifts, commissions, or any form of payment to expedite services, approvals, claims, or payments. Any person demanding such facilitation is a fraudster," the CEO said.

The agency reiterated that all its services are provided through official government channels and not through individuals claiming to have influence within the institution.

According to SHA, services including registration, accreditation and claims-related processes are only offered through its branch offices and Huduma centres located across all counties.

The authority urged healthcare providers and beneficiaries to verify any communication purporting to originate from SHA before taking action or making any payments.

It also warned the public against individuals promising preferential treatment, quicker approvals or expedited processing of claims in return for financial inducements.

"We urge healthcare providers, beneficiaries, and members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid engaging individuals claiming to offer preferential treatment or expedited services on behalf of SHA," the notice stated.

SHA encouraged anyone who encounters suspected fraud or impersonation to report the matter immediately through its official reporting channels.

Members of the public can report suspected cases through the Authority's dedicated email address, [email protected], or by calling its toll-free line, 147.

The authority also advised victims or witnesses of fraudulent activities to report the incidents to the police for investigation and appropriate legal action.

The warning comes as the Social Health Authority continues implementing the country's public health insurance programme, with increasing numbers of Kenyans registering for services and healthcare providers seeking accreditation under the scheme.

The notice was signed by Mwangangi, who urged the public to remain alert and report any attempts by individuals seeking to exploit the Authority's name for personal gain.