The Social Health Authority (SHA) has issued an urgent alert to all Health Care Providers (HCPs) after receiving reports of fraudulent messages demanding payment during the signing of the Public Officers Medical Scheme Fund (POMSF) addendum to existing contracts.
In a notice released by the agency’s CEO Mercy Mwangangi, SHA clarified that it does not charge any fees for the signing, processing, or facilitation of the POMSF addendum.
The authority warned that unscrupulous individuals are taking advantage of the ongoing contract updates to target health facilities with fake payment requests, allegedly to “fast-track” or “validate” the process.
“This is a serious matter. We are aware that some providers have been approached with fraudulent demands, and we want to make it clear that no payment is required at any stage of the addendum signing,” Mwangangi said.
According to SHA, the fraudsters are using SMS, WhatsApp messages and direct phone calls to impersonate SHA staff and demand money, sometimes providing fake reference numbers or forged documents to appear legitimate.
Some health facilities reported receiving threats that their accreditation or claims processing would be halted if they failed to comply with these unofficial demands.
SHA has urged all providers to remain vigilant, verify any communication, and avoid making payments to individuals or accounts not officially associated with the authority.
The notice emphasises that all official communication regarding the POMSF process originates from SHA headquarters or verified channels on its website.
To confirm any messages or seek assistance, providers are encouraged to use the following official contacts- Toll-free line: 0800 720 60, Email: [email protected] and Website: www.sha.go.ke
In addition, SHA has provided dedicated fraud-reporting channels to help track and act on suspicious activity.
Providers can report fraud through the email [email protected] or by calling the toll-free hotline 0800 720 601.
The authority says it is working closely with security agencies to investigate the incidents and identify individuals behind the scheme.
Mwangangi reiterated SHA’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the medical scheme and protecting providers from exploitation.
“We are taking these reports seriously. Any attempts to defraud providers undermine the health system and the trust placed in public institutions. We urge all partners to report such cases immediately,” she said.
SHA also reminded providers that any changes to contract procedures or official requirements will be communicated transparently through established channels.
The notice serves as a caution to health facilities to rely only on verified information as the POMSF addendum process continues nationwide.
