Health Insurance Vs. Pay-As-You-Go: What’s Smarter For Your Team And Your Bottom Line?
In Kenya’s tough economic climate, every shilling matters and for many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the balancing act between reducing costs and making smart investments is constant. One decision that keeps many business owners awake at night?
Should I buy group health insurance for my staff or pay medical bills only when emergencies arise?
At first glance, “pay-as-you-go” healthcare seems simple and cost-effective. No huge lumpsum costs (premiums), no admin work, and no long-term commitment.
But beneath the surface lies a costly trap; one that could cripple your cash flow, weaken your team, and stall your growth.
The Real Cost of the Pay-As-You-Go Approach
On paper, dealing with medical issues only when they come up sounds practical, right? Especially for lean businesses. But here’s what that model doesn’t factor in:
- One medical emergency can wipe you out
A single hospital admission, say, for surgery or childbirth can cost over Ksh 200,000. For many SMEs, that’s rent, salaries, or inventory lost overnight. - No budget predictability
Without structured health insurance, you’re always reacting. One month you’re fine, the next, you’re emptying your savings to help a sick employee. - Team morale takes a hit
Your staff are your business. If they’re worried about getting sick with no safety net, stress rises, productivity and loyalty drop.
What seems like a cheaper route can end up ten times more expensive; in money, trust, and performance.
Why Group Health Cover is the Smarter Investment
Now flip the script.
Health insurance for SMEs isn’t just about hospital bills; it’s a business tool that protects your people and your profits.
- Predictable Costs
With fixed monthly or quarterly premiums, you can plan better with no more surprise six-figure invoices. - Boost Retention and Loyalty
Even a modest medical plan signals that you value your employees. It builds trust, boosts morale, and keeps your best people around. - Better Productivity
Healthy workers mean fewer sick days, faster recovery, and higher focus at work. - A Stronger Brand
Clients, partners, and investors notice how you treat your team. A covered workforce sends the message: We care, we’re serious, we’re here to grow. - Peace of Mind as a Business Owner
You’re not just protecting your team; You’re protecting yourself, your family, and the future of your business. It’s also often easier and more affordable to access health insurance as part of a group cover than it is individually.
AS a business owner, you carry a lot on your shoulders but having medical cover means you don’t have to shoulder it all alone.
What Smart Kenyan Entrepreneurs Are Doing
More and more SMEs; from shop owners to service providers, from tech startups to chama groups are switching to group medical cover.
Why?
Because they see the value in structured health protection that includes:
- Inpatient and outpatient care
- Maternity and chronic illness management
- Drug delivery services
- Mental wellness support
You insure your car, You insure your stock. Isn’t it time you insured your team and yourself?
When your staff are taken care of, they can take care of your business.
Explore flexible group cover options with instalment payment plans tailored for Kenyan SMEs
Visit the Jubilee SME Health Cover page Or 📱 SMS “SME” to 40643 to get started in minutes.
Bonus Tip:
With Jubilee Health Insurance, you also get free wellness programs for you and your team. From workplace checkups and chronic disease screening to mental health support—all at no extra cost.
In Summary:
- Pay-as-you-go = Risk
- Group health cover = Protection + Planning
The smartest move you’ll make this year might just be giving your team and yourself the safety net you deserve.