The Nairobi Hospital has temporarily suspended its planned price hikes after a strong backlash from health insurers and other key stakeholders, sparking a wider conversation on the rising cost of healthcare in Kenya.
The premier private hospital had recently announced revised rates for consultations, procedures, and inpatient services, citing escalating operational costs, inflationary pressures, and the need to maintain high-quality service delivery. However, the move was met with immediate resistance from insurance companies, who warned that the increased charges would lead to higher premiums for clients, potentially forcing many Kenyans to forgo much-needed medical care.
Health insurers argued that sudden cost adjustments without adequate consultations would place an undue financial burden on patients, particularly at a time when households are grappling with economic hardships. They urged private health facilities to adopt a more transparent and collaborative approach to pricing, ensuring that adjustments are justified and manageable for both patients and insurers.
In a statement released on Monday, the Nairobi Hospital management confirmed that the planned price increases had been suspended to allow for comprehensive consultations with insurers, medical professionals, and other partners. The hospital emphasized its commitment to balancing financial sustainability with its mandate to provide accessible, high-quality healthcare.
“We remain dedicated to serving our patients with excellence, and we believe that engaging all stakeholders in open dialogue is the best way to ensure fairness and affordability while maintaining our standards,” the statement read.
This development comes amid growing concerns over the cost of healthcare in Kenya, where private hospital fees are often out of reach for low- and middle-income earners. Experts have called for broader reforms in the health sector, including standardized pricing, better regulation, and expanded insurance coverage, to prevent financial barriers from denying Kenyans access to essential medical services.
