SHA extends healthcare provider contracts deadline to December 31, 2026

The Social Health Authority (SHA) has extended the deadline for healthcare providers to finalize their contracts to December 31, 2026, allowing hospitals and other health facilities more time to complete the process and maintain uninterrupted services for patients. This extension was announced in a notice dated October 15, 2026, by SHA Chief Executive Officer Dr Mercy Mwangangi. Existing contracts, which were due to expire on October 14, 2026, will remain in force until the end of the year.

SHA's decision comes after an initial deadline of October 14 was set, with the government initially indicating no further extensions. The additional time is intended to allow facilities to address challenges encountered during the contracting process and ensure beneficiaries continue accessing healthcare services. Contracts covering the 2024-2026 period will remain in force throughout the extension, giving healthcare facilities with valid contracts time to work on the requirements for the next contracting cycle.

The new contracting cycle, starting January 1, 2027, will see providers submit all mandatory documentation by December 31, 2026.

SHA has directed healthcare facilities to submit all required documentation for contracting, with the moratorium on selected documents no longer in effect. The authority has assured beneficiaries that valid claims will be honored during this extension period. The extension is part of SHA's implementation of the 2026-2029 healthcare provider contracting cycle, known as HAKIKA, launched in September.

The new electronic contracting platform allows providers to submit applications, upload documents, verify licences, execute contracts, and track progress digitally. The extension provides temporary certainty for healthcare providers and patients, but facilities must still complete outstanding requirements and secure new contracts before the revised deadline.