The decision by Kanduyi Malaba Stage Hospital came to light after a document was shared online by Democratic Action Party–Kenya on the social media platform X.
According to the document posted by the party, the hospital issued a notice dated April 3 announcing the temporary suspension of services for patients covered under the Social Health Authority scheme. The hospital said the move was due to unresolved issues with the insurer.
The notice indicated that patients registered under the program would now be required to pay cash before receiving treatment at the facility. The arrangement will remain in place until the pending issues are addressed.
However the hospital stated that patients using cash payments or other private insurance providers will continue receiving medical services without interruption.
Management also clarified that critically ill patients who are already admitted will continue to receive treatment. Medical staff were directed to ensure their care continues despite the suspension.
Patients who depend on the Social Health Authority program were advised to seek treatment at other accredited hospitals while the matter is being resolved.
The notice circulated online has drawn attention because it surfaced only days after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua warned that the national health scheme could face serious financial strain.
The Social Health Authority program was introduced in 2024 to replace the National Hospital Insurance Fund as part of the government’s effort to expand healthcare access.
However hospitals and health experts have repeatedly raised concerns about delayed payments and claim processing challenges under the system.
The document shared by the Democratic Action Party–Kenya has now fueled fresh public debate about the future of the scheme and its ability to support hospitals across the country.
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