Machakos Health Facilities and Hospitals that Accept SHA

Understanding SHA Coverage in Machakos

The Social Health Authority officially replaced the National Hospital Insurance Fund to overhaul Kenya’s healthcare system and enhance healthcare access, quality, and affordability through the Social Health Insurance Fund. For residents of Machakos County, this transition means expanded access to healthcare services across a comprehensive network of public and private facilities.

Public Health Facilities

Machakos County boasts a robust network of government-operated health facilities that accept SHA. At the apex is Machakos Level 5 Hospital, the county’s main referral facility located along the Machakos-Wote Road. This flagship hospital provides comprehensive medical services including specialized care, surgical procedures, and emergency services to SHA members.

The county operates three Level 4 sub-county hospitals strategically positioned to serve different regions. Kathiani Sub-County Hospital serves the Kathiani area, while Kangundo Sub-County Hospital caters to residents of Kangundo and surrounding communities. These facilities offer inpatient and outpatient services, maternity care, and basic surgical procedures covered under SHA.

Throughout the county, numerous Level 3 health centres provide primary healthcare services including maternal health, immunization, and treatment of common ailments. Notable facilities include Athi River Health Centre, Mlolongo Health Centre, and Matungulu Health Centre in Tala. These centres serve as the first point of contact for many SHA members seeking medical attention.

At the grassroots level, Machakos County operates over 30 Level 2 dispensaries distributed across various locations. These dispensaries offer basic outpatient services, health education, and referrals to higher-level facilities when necessary. All government-operated facilities accept SHA without requiring additional out-of-pocket payments for covered services.

Faith-Based and Private Facilities

Beyond government facilities, SHA coverage extends to faith-based organizations and licensed private healthcare providers. Bishop Kioko Catholic Hospital, a well-established faith-based facility, accepts SHA members and provides comprehensive medical services including specialized care.

Private hospitals such as Bristol Park Hospital and Shalom Community Hospital have contracted with SHA to provide services to members. RFH Healthcare operates a facility in Tala offering 24-hour inpatient and outpatient services with SHA accreditation, serving communities in Tala, Kangundo, and Machakos.

Health facilities in Machakos are among those struggling with SHA system implementation challenges, including technological difficulties that have made it difficult to process and sort out claims. Despite these teething problems, facilities continue to serve SHA members while the system stabilizes.

Accessing Services

SHA members in Machakos can access services at any registered facility within the network. To receive treatment, patients must present their SHA membership card or provide their SHA number for verification. The biometric system allows for patient identification and service authorization at participating facilities.

For specialized services requiring referral, patients typically start at lower-level facilities before being referred to Machakos Level 5 Hospital or other specialized centres. Emergency cases can proceed directly to the appropriate facility regardless of referral protocols.

Coverage and Benefits

SHA coverage in Machakos includes outpatient services, inpatient care, maternity services, emergency treatment, surgical procedures, and pharmaceutical supplies. The program aims to eliminate financial barriers to healthcare access, ensuring that Machakos residents can seek treatment without fear of catastrophic health expenditures.

County government facilities provide free services under SHA at Levels 2 through 4, while Level 5 facilities may have specific coverage arrangements. Private and faith-based facilities operate under contracted terms with SHA, ensuring members receive standardized benefits across all participating facilities.

Future Outlook

As SHA implementation continues to evolve, Machakos County health facilities are gradually adapting to the new system. The county’s diverse network of public, private, and faith-based facilities ensures that SHA members have multiple access points for quality healthcare services throughout Machakos.