Nairobi, June 3 -- Medical insurance claims have nearly doubled over the past five years to Sh52.61 billion, driven by rising healthcare costs and increased utilisation, forcing insurers to raise premiums to remain viable.

Latest industry data shows claims rose by 97.7 percent from Sh26.69 billion in 2021 to Sh52.61 billion last year, underlining mounting pressure on underwriters as more Kenyans seek treatment and the cost of care escalates.

The surge in claims has been accompanied by a steady increase in premiums, which grew by 81.1 percent from Sh51.42 billion in 2021 to Sh93.28 billion last year. This reflects insurers' efforts to price in higher risks and sustain their medical books amid shrinking margins.

Medical insurance remains...