The Social Health Authority (SHA), launched in October 2024, has revolutionized healthcare in Kenya by replacing the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC). For Kirinyaga County residents, accessing SHA-licensed healthcare facilities ensures affordable, high-quality medical services. This article provides a comprehensive list of all SHA-accredited public health facilities in Kirinyaga, alongside insights into the SHA scheme, facility levels, and tips for navigating the county’s healthcare system.
Understanding the Social Health Authority (SHA)
The SHA is Kenya’s flagship healthcare initiative under UHC, designed to provide equitable access to medical services. Key aspects include:
- Mandatory Enrollment: All Kenyans must register with SHA to access subsidized services at contracted facilities.
- Broad Coverage: SHA funds outpatient, inpatient, maternal, emergency, and specialized care, with co-payments for advanced treatments.
- Accredited Facilities: SHA contracts public, private, and faith-based facilities licensed by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) and the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada).
In Kirinyaga, SHA registration has progressed significantly, with thousands of residents transitioning from NHIF. The county’s 299 health facilities, including 81 public facilities, reflect its commitment to healthcare accessibility.
Importance of SHA-Licensed Facilities in Kirinyaga
Kirinyaga County, with a population of approximately 610,000, relies on a robust network of healthcare facilities to serve its residents. SHA-licensed facilities are vital because:
- Cost-Effective Care: SHA reduces out-of-pocket expenses for registered members.
- Quality Standards: Licensed facilities meet KMPDC requirements, ensuring safe and reliable services.
- Strategic Distribution: Facilities are spread across Kirinyaga’s four sub-counties (Kirinyaga Central, Gichugu, Mwea, and Ndia), enhancing access.
Comprehensive List of SHA-Licensed Public Health Facilities in Kirinyaga
Below is a detailed table of all SHA-licensed public health facilities in Kirinyaga County, categorized by facility type and level. All are county government-operated and licensed as of 2025.
| S/No | Reg_No | Facility Name | Facility Type | Level | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 132 | GK-008217 | Murinduko Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 133 | GK-008218 | Difathas Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 134 | GK-008219 | Kianyaga Sub-County Hospital | Hospital | 4 | Licensed |
| 135 | GK-008221 | Kianjege Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 136 | GK-008223 | Nguka Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 137 | GK-008225 | Kiangai Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 138 | GK-008229 | Rurii Kiandegwa Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 139 | GK-008230 | Nguguini Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 140 | GK-008232 | Kairini Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 141 | GK-008234 | Kibirigwi Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 142 | GK-008236 | Joshua Mbai Memorial Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 143 | GK-008238 | Kutus Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 144 | GK-008239 | Gachiongo Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 145 | GK-008242 | Kiamutugu Sub-County Hospital | Hospital | 4 | Licensed |
| 146 | GK-008244 | Kabare Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 147 | GK-008247 | Karumandi Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 148 | GK-008249 | Kamweti Health Centre | Dental Centre | 3A | Licensed |
| 149 | GK-008250 | Kirogo Dispensary | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 150 | GK-008252 | South Ngariama Health Centre | Basic Health Centre | 3A | Licensed |
| 151 | GK-008255 | Mumbuini Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 152 | GK-008258 | Kiumbu Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 153 | GK-008261 | Kamuiru Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 154 | GK-008263 | Kimbimbi Sub-County Hospital | Hospital | 4 | Licensed |
| 155 | GK-008265 | Kangu Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 156 | GK-008268 | Gatwe Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 157 | GK-008270 | Gathigiriri Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 158 | GK-008272 | Kagumo Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 159 | GK-008274 | Gathambi Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 160 | GK-008299 | Wamumu Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 161 | GK-008345 | Baricho Sub-County Hospital | Hospital | 4 | Licensed |
| 162 | GK-008414 | Kariko Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 163 | GK-008415 | Gatithi Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 164 | GK-008416 | Uceru Community Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 165 | GK-008418 | Kandongu Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 166 | GK-008419 | Njegas Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 167 | GK-008420 | Kiburu Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 168 | GK-008421 | Kiangombe Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 169 | GK-008422 | Ciagi-Ini Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 170 | GK-008424 | Kiaragana Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 171 | GK-008426 | Mutithi Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 172 | GK-008428 | Kiamuthambi Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 173 | GK-008430 | Gatugura Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 174 | GK-008431 | Kiamanyeki Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 175 | GK-008434 | Gatuto Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 176 | GK-008435 | Kanjinji Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 177 | GK-008461 | Mukangu Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 178 | GK-008462 | Karimaini Community Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 179 | GK-008463 | Thigirici Mukui Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 180 | GK-008464 | Thiba Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 181 | GK-008473 | Kiaga Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 182 | GK-008582 | Kang’aru Health Centre | Basic Health Centre | 3A | Licensed |
| 183 | GK-008584 | Kerugoya County Referral Hospital | Hospital | 5 | Licensed |
| 184 | GK-008586 | Sagana Sub-County Hospital | Hospital | 4 | Licensed |
| 185 | GK-014714 | Mutitu Community Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 186 | GK-014715 | Kiarukungu Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 187 | GK-014716 | Gathuthuma Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 188 | GK-015222 | Kiaumbui Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 189 | GK-015226 | Kiawakara Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 190 | GK-020081 | Kiamwathi Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
Private and Faith-Based SHA-Licensed Facilities
Kirinyaga also hosts private and faith-based SHA-licensed facilities, such as Kerugoya Medical Centre and Kagio Nursing Home, known for maternity and specialized services. For a complete list, visit sha.go.ke.
Facility Levels Explained
SHA-licensed facilities in Kirinyaga are classified by level, indicating the scope of services:
- Level 2 (Dispensaries): Offer basic outpatient care, maternal health, and minor treatments (e.g., Rurii Kiandegwa Dispensary).
- Level 3A (Basic Health Centres): Provide outpatient services, basic diagnostics, and dental care (e.g., Kamweti Health Centre).
- Level 3B (Health Centres): Offer advanced outpatient care, minor surgeries, and inpatient services (e.g., Kutus Health Centre).
- Level 4 (Sub-County Hospitals): Provide comprehensive inpatient/outpatient care, surgeries, and specialized services (e.g., Kianyaga Sub-County Hospital).
- Level 5 (County Referral Hospital): Offer advanced diagnostics, specialized surgeries, and referral services (e.g., Kerugoya County Referral Hospital).
Kerugoya County Referral Hospital: A Level 5 Milestone
The Kerugoya County Referral Hospital, elevated to Level 5 in 2024, is a flagship facility under Kirinyaga’s Mountain Cities 2032 Blueprint. With a 449-bed capacity, it features:
- Specialized Units: ICU, NICU, HDU, Burns Unit, and a 12-bed ICU with oxygen-equipped beds.
- Advanced Services: Oncology, orthopedics, pediatrics, ENT, and neuro-pediatric clinics.
- Modern Equipment: CT scan, X-ray, and a modern incinerator handling 50 kg of waste hourly.
The hospital serves approximately 600 patients daily and has reduced referrals to external facilities, enhancing local healthcare access.
How to Access SHA Services in Kirinyaga
To benefit from SHA services, follow these steps:
- Register with SHA: Enroll at Huduma Centres, SHA-accredited facilities, or online at sha.go.ke.
- Verify Facility: Confirm the facility’s SHA accreditation via the SHA website.
- Carry ID: Present your national ID or SHA membership details at the facility.
- Know Your Coverage: Basic services are fully covered; advanced treatments may require co-payments.
Senior advisor Moses Kuria emphasized that SHA-registered members should not be charged for primary care at Level 2, 3, or 4 facilities. Report any violations to hospital management or local authorities.
Healthcare Challenges and Opportunities in Kirinyaga
Challenges
- Registration Gaps: Some residents are yet to register with SHA, limiting access.
- Private Facility Transition: Initial delays in contracting private facilities caused disruptions.
- Rural Access: Remote areas may lack Level 4 or 5 facilities, requiring travel to Kerugoya.
Opportunities
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Kianyaga and Kimbimbi Hospital Medical Complexes are under construction, boosting capacity.
- Digital Integration: The Health Management Information System (HMIS) at Kerugoya Hospital ensures real-time drug stock management, improving efficiency.
- Community Health Promoters: Integration into SHA’s digital system enhances grassroots healthcare delivery.
Choosing the Right SHA-Licensed Facility
- Proximity: Select facilities like Kairini Dispensary for rural areas or Kerugoya County Referral Hospital for urban residents.
- Service Requirements: Opt for Level 2/3 facilities for primary care; choose Level 4/5 for specialized treatment.
- Accreditation Check: Verify SHA status on sha.go.ke.
- Emergency Planning: Save contacts for Level 4/5 hospitals, such as Kerugoya County Referral Hospital (P.O. Box 24-10300, Kerugoya).
Kirinyaga’s healthcare system is on an upward trajectory, driven by SHA and county investments. The Kerugoya Medical Complex, hailed by President William Ruto as a devolution success, sets a benchmark for Level 5 care. Ongoing projects, including maternity wards at Sagana and Kimbimbi hospitals, will add 120 maternity beds, enhancing maternal health.
By 2032, Kirinyaga aims to become a Wellness City, with expanded facilities and digital health systems. The county’s focus on training health workers and equipping facilities ensures sustainable progress. Governor Anne Waiguru’s leadership has been pivotal, with the HMIS and new ambulances improving service delivery.
Kirinyaga County’s 58 SHA-licensed public health facilities, from dispensaries like Nguguini to the state-of-the-art Kerugoya County Referral Hospital, provide a robust healthcare network. By registering with SHA and choosing accredited facilities, residents can access affordable, quality care. Stay informed, verify facility status, and leverage Kirinyaga’s advancing healthcare infrastructure for better health outcomes.
For updates on SHA-licensed facilities, visit sha.go.ke or contact your nearest Huduma Centre. Share this guide to empower others in navigating Kirinyaga’s healthcare system.
