By Moses G Kuria
We live
in a time where we are more health conscious than ever. The COVID-19 pandemic
taught us that the unexpected can occur at any time and have a devastating
impact on not just our health but livelihoods and families. Health insurance
has always been there to cover us in times of need, to cater for our treatments
and shield us from all the unexpected bills that come with unexpected illnesses.
However,
adoption and uptake has been hindered by the perception of insurance being
complex, expensive and out of reach for majority of Kenyans.
It is
unfortunate that a perception of distrust in health insurance has led to low uptake
in the past; however, we have now become much more aware of how health
insurance could not only save lives but shield individuals and families from
emptying bank accounts to cater for hospital bills.
In Kenya high out of pocket medical bills have
been the significant driver of many individuals and families towards poverty…
Despite these challenges, technology and innovation has the opportunity to
transform and accelerate uptake of health insurance.
Moses
G Kuria: Managing Director -MTIBA
Right
here at home we have seen more insurers shift to be more digital savvy in a bid
to keep up with today’s tech savvy customer. In doing so more insurers have
become customer centric and focused on solving the needs of clients through
creation of tailor-made products that fit different clients.
To take it a step further we have seen various
insurers utilize the convenience of health financing technology platforms that
enable users and policy holders to manage their insurance policies and health
payments on their mobile phones.
These
platforms are also in synchrony with various hospital systems and healthcare
providers to provide seamless transactions, smooth payment and treatment
processes and great customer experience. This not only grants customers ease of
access but also paves the way for availability of quality, reliable and
affordable healthcare across Kenya meaning deepened healthcare inclusion and
the realization of sustainable development goals.
Even as
we continue to innovate and get closer to the customers we should never forget
to constantly educate and create unlimited opportunities to spread insurance
knowledge. Joint initiatives by regulators, insurers and healthcare providers
will help fill the knowledge gap that is ailing the progression of the sector.
By doing so, we will empower more people to make more informed and proper
insurance decisions and create room for the creation and implementation of new
insurance solutions to cater to high demand that will eventually arise.
Moses G Kuria: Managing
Director -MTIBA.
