By Eddah Waithaka
The Nairobi Hospital has reversed a recent 5% price increase on medical services, ending a tense standoff with major insurance companies that had threatened to disrupt care for thousands of patients.
The premier private hospital announced the decision days after several medical insurers suspended services, citing the unexpected tariff adjustments announced on August 8.
The move had sparked widespread anxiety among patients and doctors across the region.”In view of the prevailing economic circumstances where the costs of both imported and local medical products have risen, TNH marginally reviewed upwards the prices,” the hospital stated in a press briefing.
It defended the hike as a necessary response to rising costs in pharmaceuticals, equipment, and essential supplies, noting its new rates remained competitive.
The situation escalated quickly. Insurers reacted to the implementation by issuing advisories to their clients, effectively suspending coverage for services at the 71-year-old institution.
This prompted an emergency meeting on August 11 between the hospital’s Senior Management Team and insurance representatives.”Mutual goodwill prevailed in a constructive dialogue,” the hospital reported, announcing it had rescinded the tariff adjustments to allow for further negotiations.
The decision immediately restores all services to previous rates.The hospital moved swiftly to reassure the public.
“We wish to reassure all its patients that the rates remain as were prior to adjustments,” the statement read, emphasizing its commitment to delivering the highest standard of care.
The hospital also clarified that for insured patients, access to services remains subject to approval from their providers. It encouraged patients to contact their insurers directly to confirm coverage and seek clarification on any care disruptions.
The Nairobi Hospital, the largest stand-alone private hospital in Eastern, Southern, and Central Africa, reaffirmed its commitment to constructive dialogue with insurance partners while prioritizing patient care and ensuring service continuity.
