Case study household 2: Benefits of health insurance

Maria is a 76-year-old female, widowed, currently incapacitated and reliant on her daughter in law to provide care. Maria suffers from arthritis, hypertension and ulcers. She has NHIF but has to buy medication out-of- pocket because the [public?] facilities do not have medication. However, her most recent inpatient bill of KSh. 16,000(US$130) was fully paid for by NHIF. Before enrolling for NHIF, her family had to fundraise to cover the cost of her care, which created many family conflicts. With NHIF coverage, family conflict has reduced and Maria’s son believes that having the insurance has helped Maria feel more cared for and appreciate her family more. (IDI_F_Active_01)