Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has asked patients seeking non-emergency medical services to consider visiting other hospitals as the facility deals with a sharp increase in patient numbers.
The national referral hospital issued the notice on Thursday, August 20, 2026, saying it was experiencing congestion and longer waiting times.
KNH explained that the situation has been caused by disruptions in health services in several counties due to ongoing industrial action by healthcare workers. As a result, many patients who would normally receive treatment at county hospitals are now travelling to KNH.
The increase in patients has placed extra pressure on the hospital and affected the time taken to serve patients, particularly those seeking non-emergency services.
KNH has therefore encouraged patients with non-urgent medical needs to consider hospitals closer to where they live, where appropriate.
The hospital said the move would help reduce pressure at the facility and allow patients to receive medical care in a more timely manner.
Despite the congestion, KNH has assured the public that it remains open and continues to provide emergency and critical care services.
The situation comes amid an ongoing strike affecting healthcare services in a number of counties. Healthcare workers involved in the industrial action have raised concerns over issues including the implementation of Collective Bargaining Agreements, salary arrears and employment of Universal Health Coverage workers.
KNH is Kenya's largest public referral hospital and receives patients from different parts of the country. Because of its specialised services, many patients travel long distances to seek treatment there.
The current situation has increased the number of people seeking care at the facility beyond its usual daily workload. KNH normally handles about 4,800 patients each day, but the numbers have recently risen because of disruptions at other health facilities.
The hospital has apologised to patients for the inconvenience caused by the congestion and asked them to remain patient and understanding as the situation continues.
For patients who require emergency or critical care, KNH remains operational and continues to provide the necessary services.
The latest notice highlights the pressure that strikes in county hospitals can place on national referral facilities when patients are forced to seek treatment elsewhere.