If you are a member of the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), you can easily choose or change your NHIF outpatient facility online. This is a simple and convenient process that you can do from anywhere. In this guide, you will learn how to do so online via the NHIF self-care portal and the USSD code, *155#.
An outpatient facility is a hospital or clinic that you can visit for medical consultations, tests, prescriptions, and other services without being admitted. You can only choose one facility for yourself and each of your dependents (spouse and children) who are registered under your NHIF card.
Why you might want to change your NHIF outpatient facility
There are various factors that might prompt you to change your outpatient facility. These include:
- If you move to a different location and want a closer or more convenient facility.
- Being dissatisfied with the services or quality of care at your current facility.
- If you want to try out a different facility that offers better or specialized services.
How to choose or change your NHIF outpatient facility online
You can choose or change your NHIF outpatient facility online through the NHIF self-care portal or via the USSD code *155#.
To use the NHIF self-care portal, follow these steps:
- Visit the NHIF self-care portal on your computer or mobile device.
- Enter your ID number and click on “Get One Time PIN”.
- Wait for an SMS message containing a One Time PIN (OTP) and enter it once you receive it.
- Click “Change Facility”
- Select your county.
- Choose an NHIF outpatient facility or Hospital in your chosen county.
- Confirm your selection by clicking Save Changes.
To use the USSD code *155#, follow the steps below:
- Dial *155# on your phone (it is toll-free).
- Select your preferred language (English/Swahili).
- Select National Health Scheme from the menu options.
- Enter your ID number and wait for an OTP on your phone.
- Enter the OTP and verify it.
- Follow the subsequent prompts on your screen to complete your request.
You will receive a confirmation message with the name of your chosen NHIF outpatient facility and the effective date of the change.
How often can I change my NHIF outpatient facility?
You can change your outpatient facility at any time of the year. However, the effective date of the change will be at the beginning of the next quarter. For example, if you make a change between January and March, it will take effect in April.
