Every year, millions of Kenyan families are pushed into poverty by unexpected medical obligations, with studies indicating that it takes a middle-income family close to three years to recover from a medical financial strain of up to Sh1 million. 

A single health emergency—a surgery, a hospital stay, or a chronic condition—can wipe out savings meant for school fees, housing, or future investments.

Kenyan households spend more than 10 percent of their budget on health care each year. The poorest households spend up to a third of their resources on health care, while the richest households spend only 8 percent.

Data from the 2024 economic survey shows about 1.48 million Kenyans are pushed below the national poverty line due to health care payments. 

As we enter 2025, it is paramount for households to interrogate if they are prepared for uncertainties including health risks amid warning earnings due to high taxes among other factors. 

In Sub-Saharan Africa, a systematic review of health cares financing mechanisms by USAID IN 2023 revealed that the majority of health care payments are direct from out-of-pocket as insurance is still largely viewed as a preserve for elites. 

The results are consistent with Kenya’s case where only one in four individuals—26 percent of females and 27 percent of males—have health covers. 

Unfortunately, if the cost of care exceeds the household’s ability to pay, people are forced to avoid the use of health services or even delay using them. 

These stark numbers highlight a simple truth: Health insurance is not a luxury; it’s a lifeline. Here’s why securing affordable health insurance, like Jubilee Health Insurance’s CoverBora, should be a priority for every Kenyan in 2025.

CoverBora Medical Cover enables individuals and families of any size to purchase plans with monthly payments from as low as Sh500. The coverage tiers range from Sh250, 000 to Sh500, 000 per insured family per annum.

Unlike any other medical cover, CoverBora has adopted a holistic approach that covers everything inpatient from maternity care to end-of-life provisions. It also provides coverage for pre-existing and chronic conditions during hospitalization, and even HIV conditions without bias. 

Customers with pre-existing conditions are not subjected to a waiting period thereby ensuring they access timely care during critical moments. In addition, CoverBora includes last expense benefits, and coverage for psychiatric illnesses.

Life is unpredictable, and while we can’t foresee every twist and turn, we can prepare for the unexpected. Health insurance is the foundation that keeps your goals, dreams, and well-being intact when life throws a curveball. Here's why securing health insurance is one of the smartest decisions you can make this year.

Prevention is better than cure. Most people only seek medical attention when the situation is critical.

This is largely due to affordability. Health insurance ensures that your journey toward better health—be it eating right, exercising, or regular checkups—is not interrupted by financial worries. Instead of delaying care due to cost, insured individuals can access consultations, diagnostics, and treatment when needed.
The stress of a medical emergency doesn’t just affect finances—it takes a toll on mental well-being. Parents worry about affording treatment for their children; young professionals fear debt that could derail their futures.

Health insurance brings peace of mind. It reassures families that they are prepared for the unexpected, allowing them to focus on their goals with confidence.

A health cover strengthens family stability. When one family member has health insurance, the entire household benefits. Children can access timely treatment, parents avoid financial strain, and the family remains united during challenging times.

The emotional reassurance that comes with health insurance is invaluable. Knowing that your family is protected in case of illness or injury reduces stress and allows you to focus on life’s other priorities.

For parents, it’s the comfort of knowing their children’s health needs are covered. For adult children, it’s the security of safeguarding aging parents. Peace of mind is a priceless benefit that health insurance brings to every household.

Furthermore, access to Quality Healthcare Health insurance opens the doors to a network of trusted healthcare providers. Families can access top-tier medical services, ensuring timely and effective treatment. 

Whether it’s regular check-ups, specialized consultations, or emergency care, health insurance provides access to facilities and professionals that might otherwise be out of reach. In essence, it’s a passport to quality healthcare.

Affordable health insurance is more than protecting individuals—it’s also about building a stronger society. Initiatives like Jubilee Health Insurance’s CoverBora help bridge gaps in healthcare access, reducing the burden on public hospitals while supporting Kenya’s goal of achieving universal health coverage (UHC).

By making quality care accessible to more people, health insurance programs contribute to a healthier, more productive population. This ripple effect strengthens not only families but also the economy and national well being.

Every goal you’ve set for this year—financial growth, better health, or providing for your family—depends on your ability to stay healthy and secure. Health insurance is not just a policy; it’s the foundation of those dreams.

 

The writer, Dr Musa Misiani, is the COO at Jubilee Heath Insurance