KNH confirms surge in patients, asks non-emergency patients to seek care elsewhere
Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has confirmed a surge in patient numbers and congestion after industrial action disrupted health services in several counties, including Embu County. KNH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard L. Lesiyampe said the national referral hospital is receiving patients who would ordinarily seek treatment at county and other health facilities. KNH feels pain […]
Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has reported a significant rise in patient numbers and congestion due to industrial action that has disrupted health services in multiple counties, such as Embu County. The national referral hospital is now treating patients who would typically receive care at county and other health facilities, according to KNH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard L. Lesiyampe.
In a statement on Thursday, August 20, 2026, Lesiyampe highlighted that KNH is grappling with increased patient volumes and congestion, resulting in longer waiting times and delays, particularly for non-emergency services.
Lesiyampe appealed to patients seeking non-emergency care to consider other hospitals nearer to them, as appropriate, to alleviate the strain on KNH and ensure timely access to necessary healthcare. He assured the public that KNH remains fully operational and continues to provide essential emergency and critical care services. The hospital expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by the congestion and requested patience and understanding from patients.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
