Kenyatta National Hospital History, Founder, NHIF, Location, Services

18 January 2024

[Kenyatta National Hospital/LinkedIn]

Written by Pharis Kinyua

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In the heart of Nairobi, Kenya, stands a healthcare bastion that has been a cornerstone of medical services for decades—the Kenyatta National Hospital. As the largest referral and teaching hospital in the country, its history is woven into the fabric of Kenya's healthcare landscape. From its inception to its present role as a beacon of medical care, the Kenyatta National Hospital has remained dedicated to serving the diverse healthcare needs of the nation.

History of Kenyatta National Hospital

Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) is the largest referral and teaching hospital in Kenya, with a rich history spanning over a century. Founded in 1901 as the Native Civil Hospital, KNH has played a pivotal role in shaping the healthcare landscape of the country.

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The hospital's origins can be traced back to the colonial era, when the British administration recognized the need for a dedicated healthcare facility for the African population. Initially established with a bed capacity of 40, the hospital quickly gained a reputation for providing compassionate care to underserved communities.

In 1939, a significant expansion took place with the completion of a new medical wing, increasing the hospital's bed capacity to 300. This expansion reflected the growing demand for quality healthcare services and marked the beginning of KNH's transformation into a major medical center.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, KNH continued to expand and modernize, adding new specialized wings and departments to cater to the evolving healthcare needs of the Kenyan population. In 1951, the hospital was renamed King George VI Hospital, reflecting the changing political landscape of the time.

Kenya's independence in 1963 brought about a renewed focus on developing a robust healthcare system. In 1964, the hospital was renamed Kenyatta National Hospital, honoring the nation's first president, Jomo Kenyatta. This name change symbolized the hospital's role in serving the newly independent nation and its commitment to providing quality healthcare for all Kenyans.

Under the leadership of President Kenyatta, KNH received significant government support, enabling further expansion and modernization. The hospital's bed capacity increased to 1,000, and new specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurosurgery, were introduced.

Over the years, KNH has established itself as a center of excellence in healthcare, not only in Kenya but also in the wider East African region. The hospital has played a crucial role in training generations of medical professionals, conducting groundbreaking research, and adopting cutting-edge medical technologies.

In 1987, KNH was granted the status of a State Corporation, further solidifying its position as a leading healthcare provider and a key player in the Kenyan healthcare system. The hospital's commitment to quality, innovation, and patient-centered care has remained steadfast throughout its history.

Today, KNH stands as a symbol of Kenya's healthcare achievements, providing comprehensive medical services to a growing population. With a bed capacity of over 1,800 and a team of over 6,000 dedicated professionals, KNH continues to serve as a beacon of hope and healing for generations of Kenyans.

Kenyatta National Hospital Location

The hospital's strategic location in Nairobi, Kenya's capital city, positions it as a vital hub for medical services. As the main referral and teaching hospital in the country, Kenyatta National Hospital has played a pivotal role in training healthcare professionals and providing specialized medical care. While it primarily operates from its central location, the hospital serves as a nucleus for various healthcare facilities and services spread across the country.

Branch Hospitals in the Country

While Kenyatta National Hospital itself is centralized in Nairobi, its influence extends beyond the capital. The hospital acts as a reference point for various healthcare facilities and services dispersed across the country. Its role as a referral center ensures that its impact is felt in different regions, contributing to the broader framework of healthcare accessibility in Kenya.

CEO of Kenyatta National Hospital

Dr. Evanson N. Kamuri is the current Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). He has been serving in this position since October 15, 2019.

Dr. Kamuri is a seasoned medical professional with over 20 years of experience in the field of dermatology and venereology. He holds a Master of Science degree in Clinical Dermatology, Masters in Business Administration (Strategic Management), and a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery.

Prior to his appointment as CEO, Dr. Kamuri served as the Director of the KNH Prime Care Centre and the Deputy Director in charge of Affiliation and Institutional Development. He is also the current President of the African Society of Dermatology and Venereology and the Chairman of the Kenya Association of Dermatologists.

Under Dr. Kamuri's leadership, KNH has continued to provide high-quality healthcare services to the Kenyan population and has made significant progress in expanding its facilities, upgrading its technology, and training its staff. He is committed to ensuring that KNH remains a leading center of excellence in healthcare and a beacon of hope for patients seeking quality medical care..

Acceptance of NHIF at Kenyatta National Hospital

Understanding the financial aspect of healthcare is crucial for many patients, and the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) plays a significant role in this regard. Kenyatta National Hospital, being a public institution, generally accepts NHIF as a means of facilitating broader access to healthcare services. This inclusion aligns with the hospital's commitment to serving a diverse patient demographic.

Services Offered by Kenyatta National Hospital

As a premier healthcare institution, Kenyatta National Hospital provides a wide array of medical services. From general medical care to specialized treatments, the hospital covers various disciplines, including surgery, pediatrics, maternity, and more. Its status as a teaching hospital also means that it plays a crucial role in medical education and research.

Consultation Fee at Kenyatta National Hospital

The consultation fee at Kenyatta National Hospital is structured to ensure accessibility to a broad spectrum of patients. Given its public status, the hospital aims to balance quality healthcare with affordable services, and consultation fees are generally reasonable. This affordability is in line with the hospital's commitment to being a healthcare provider for all.

Kenyatta National Hospital has a rich history that intertwines with the narrative of Kenya's healthcare evolution. From its colonial origins to its current status as a comprehensive healthcare institution, the hospital remains an integral part of the nation's healthcare landscape.