The Social Health Authority (SHA), introduced in October 2024, has transformed Kenya’s healthcare landscape by replacing the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC). For residents of Machakos County, SHA-licensed hospitals and health facilities provide access to affordable, quality medical services. This article offers a detailed list of all SHA-accredited public health facilities in Machakos, insights into the SHA scheme, and practical guidance for navigating the county’s healthcare system.
What is the Social Health Authority (SHA)?
The SHA is Kenya’s cornerstone initiative for UHC, ensuring all citizens can access healthcare without financial hardship. Key features include:
- Mandatory Registration: All Kenyans must register with SHA to access subsidized services at contracted facilities.
- Comprehensive 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 Machakos, SHA registration has gained traction, with thousands transitioning from NHIF. The county’s robust healthcare network, including over 200 public facilities, supports its 1.4 million residents.
Why SHA-Licensed Facilities Matter in Machakos
Machakos County, known for its proximity to Nairobi and a population of approximately 1.4 million, relies on a mix of public, private, and faith-based facilities to meet healthcare demands. SHA-licensed facilities are critical because:
- Affordable Care: SHA reduces out-of-pocket costs for registered members.
- Quality Assurance: Licensed facilities adhere to KMPDC standards, ensuring safe and reliable services.
- Accessibility: Machakos has a well-distributed network of facilities across its eight sub-counties, including Machakos Town, Athi River, and Kangundo.
Complete List of SHA-Licensed Public Health Facilities in Machakos
Below is a comprehensive table of all SHA-licensed public health facilities in Machakos County as of 2025, categorized by facility type and level. All are county government-operated and licensed.
| S/No | Reg_No | Facility Name | Facility Type | Level | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 199 | GK-000070 | Machakos Level 5 Hospital | Hospital | 5 | Licensed |
| 200 | GK-008939 | Kalandini Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 201 | GK-008940 | Kimiti Model Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 202 | GK-009055 | Kivaani Health Centre | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 203 | GK-009060 | Ekalakala Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 204 | GK-009061 | Itunduimuni Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 205 | GK-009064 | Kawauni Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 206 | GK-009068 | Athi River Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 207 | GK-009084 | Nguluni Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 208 | GK-009086 | Kathaana Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 209 | GK-009089 | Kalama Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 210 | GK-009097 | Kimutwa Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 211 | GK-009106 | Mutituni Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 212 | GK-009118 | Kathiani Sub-County Hospital | Hospital | 4 | Licensed |
| 213 | GK-009133 | Kwa Nguu Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 214 | GK-009152 | Muumandu Health Centre | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 215 | GK-009158 | Kyumbi Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 216 | GK-009162 | Miu Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 217 | GK-009173 | Kinyaata Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 218 | GK-009174 | Masinga Health Centre | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 219 | GK-010529 | Ikalaasa Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 220 | GK-010533 | Mamba Dispensary-Machakos | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 221 | GK-010541 | Kithimani Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 222 | GK-010544 | Kinanie Model Health Centre | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 223 | GK-010546 | Mlolongo Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 224 | GK-010554 | Kangonde Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 225 | GK-010562 | Kangundo Sub-County Hospital | Hospital | 4 | Licensed |
| 226 | GK-010563 | Mutuyu Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 227 | GK-010565 | Kakuyuni Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 228 | GK-010581 | Matungulu Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 229 | GK-010585 | Kivaa Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 230 | GK-010588 | Kithyoko Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 231 | GK-010591 | Wamboo Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 232 | GK-010592 | Kaluluini Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 233 | GK-010593 | Kisesini Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 234 | GK-010594 | Katulye Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 235 | GK-010599 | Muthetheni Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 236 | GK-010601 | Ndithini Health Centre | Health Centre | 3B | Licensed |
| 237 | GK-010604 | Ikaatini Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 238 | GK-010613 | Sengani Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 239 | GK-011549 | Kikalu Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 240 | GK-011580 | Ndunduni Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 241 | GK-014019 | Kakuku Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 242 | GK-014022 | Kathome Dispensary Machakos | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 243 | GK-014033 | Muusini Dispensary-Machakos | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 244 | GK-019959 | Mavoko SNP Health Centre | Basic Health Centre | 3A | Licensed |
| 245 | GK-101596 | Ndela Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
| 246 | GK-10576 | Mukunike Dispensary | Dispensary | 2 | Licensed |
Private and Faith-Based SHA-Licensed Facilities
Machakos also hosts private and faith-based SHA-accredited facilities, such as Shalom Community Hospital and Bishop Kioko Catholic Hospital, known for specialized services like maternity and surgery. For a complete list, visit sha.go.ke.
Understanding Facility Levels in Machakos
SHA-licensed facilities in Machakos are categorized by level, indicating the scope of services:
- Level 2 (Dispensaries): Provide basic outpatient care, maternal health, and minor treatments (e.g., Kawauni Dispensary).
- Level 3A (Basic Health Centres): Offer outpatient services and basic diagnostics (e.g., Mavoko SNP Health Centre).
- Level 3B (Health Centres): Provide advanced outpatient care, minor surgeries, and inpatient services (e.g., Kalandini Health Centre).
- Level 4 (Sub-County Hospitals): Offer comprehensive inpatient/outpatient care, surgeries, and specialized services (e.g., Kathiani Sub-County Hospital).
- Level 5 (County Referral Hospital): Provide advanced diagnostics, specialized surgeries, and referral services (e.g., Machakos Level 5 Hospital).
Machakos Level 5 Hospital: A Healthcare Cornerstone
The Machakos Level 5 Hospital is the county’s premier referral facility, serving over 1,000 patients daily. Key features include:
- Specialized Services: Oncology, orthopedics, dialysis, and a 24-hour emergency department.
- Infrastructure: Modern ICU, CT scan, and laboratory accredited by the Kenya Accreditation Service.
- Capacity: Over 400 beds, with plans for a new Level 3 facility within its premises to enhance efficiency.
Governor Wavinya Ndeti has prioritized healthcare, with investments in equipment and staff training to reduce external referrals.
How to Access SHA Services in Machakos
To utilize SHA services, follow these steps:
- Register with SHA: Enroll at Huduma Centres, SHA-accredited facilities, or online at sha.go.ke.
- Verify Facility Status: Confirm accreditation via the SHA website.
- Present ID: Carry your national ID or SHA membership details.
- Understand Coverage: Basic services are fully covered; advanced treatments may require co-payments.
Healthcare Challenges and Opportunities in Machakos
Challenges
- Registration Barriers: Some residents, especially in rural areas, are yet to register with SHA.
- Facility Overload: Machakos Level 5 Hospital faces high patient volumes, straining resources.
- Rural Access: Remote areas like Masinga may lack sufficient Level 4 facilities.
Opportunities
- Infrastructure Growth: The county is developing a new Level 3 facility at Machakos Level 5 Hospital.
- Digital Health: Integration of the Health Management Information System (HMIS) improves drug stock management and service delivery.
- Community Health Programs: Community health promoters enhance SHA awareness and registration.
Tips for Choosing the Right SHA-Licensed Facility
- Location: Opt for nearby facilities like Kawauni Dispensary for rural areas or Machakos Level 5 Hospital for urban residents.
- Service Needs: Choose Level 2/3 for primary care; Level 4/5 for specialized treatment.
- Accreditation Check: Verify SHA status on sha.go.ke.
- Emergency Preparedness: Save contacts for Level 4/5 hospitals, such as Machakos Level 5 Hospital (P.O. Box 33-90100, Machakos).
Machakos County is poised for healthcare advancements under SHA. Investments in facilities, equipment, and training are reducing dependency on Nairobi hospitals. The county’s KSh 2 billion health budget for 2024/25 supports infrastructure upgrades and staff recruitment. Initiatives like the Machakos Cancer Centre at Level 5 Hospital aim to make specialized care accessible locally.
By 2030, Machakos aims to achieve a fully integrated healthcare system, with SHA ensuring affordability and quality. Governor Ndeti’s vision includes expanding Level 4 hospitals and equipping rural dispensaries, aligning with UHC goals.
Machakos County’s 48 SHA-licensed public health facilities, from dispensaries like Kivaani to the Machakos Level 5 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 Machakos’ growing 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 Machakos’ healthcare system.
