Teachers in Tharaka-Nithi County are celebrating a major breakthrough after union bosses struck a deal to overhaul how they access medical care under the Social Health Authority (SHA).
In a high-stakes sit-down yesterday, the county’s union top brass—led by Executive Secretary Njebiu, Chairman Misiani, Treasurer Poly, and Assistant Executive Secretary Micheni—faced off with senior management at PCEA Chogoria Hospital. The outcome? A raft of changes set to transform teachers’ healthcare experience.
At the heart of the deal is a big win: teachers with comprehensive SHA cover will now skip the long queues at general outpatient and head straight to the hospital’s corporate section for faster, more streamlined service.
Union insiders say the move is aimed at restoring dignity and efficiency for educators who have long complained of delays and congestion.
Even better news for those needing specialized care—teachers referred to the Chogoria Doctors Plaza will now receive treatment fully covered under SHA, with zero extra charges.
“This is a huge relief,” one union official said. “Specialist services have often come with hidden costs, but this agreement locks that out.”
The hospital team—comprising the CEO, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Nursing Officer, and Finance Officer—reportedly engaged the union in what both sides described as a “productive and solutions-driven” meeting.
Most outpatient services are now fully operational and covered under SHA, giving teachers wider access to care. However, the dental clinic remains a sticking point, with negotiations still ongoing. Union leaders promised members an update as soon as a deal is sealed.
But there’s a catch.
Teachers have been warned that not all facilities offer equal benefits. The Chogoria satellite unit in Chuka operates as a Level 2 hospital—meaning limited coverage compared to the main PCEA Chogoria Hospital, which is a fully-fledged Level 5 facility.
Union leaders are now urging members to think strategically when seeking treatment.
“To maximize SHA benefits, members should prioritize Level 4 hospitals and above,” the leadership emphasized.
The developments come amid growing national scrutiny over the rollout of SHA, with many Kenyans raising concerns about access, clarity, and service delivery.
For teachers in Tharaka-Nithi, however, this latest agreement signals a step in the right direction.
Union officials say they will continue pushing for better terms and smoother access, insisting that healthcare is not a privilege—but a right.
“We remain committed to ensuring our members receive accessible, efficient, and dignified healthcare,” the leadership affirmed.
For now, teachers can breathe a little easier—knowing that at least in Chogoria, the system is beginning to work in their favour.
