A family from Loitoktok, Kajiado County, is in deep distress. Their one‑year‑old son remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Abyan Hospital in Eastleigh. The hospital demands a staggering ₭3 million before releasing the baby or allowing his parents to visit.
The child underwent surgery in Loitoktok. The family were told to pay ₭5,000 for medical supplies, which the surgeon, Henry Kiprono, confirmed was for a catheter. “We don’t stock everything,” he told Citizen TV.
After surgery, the child suffered what doctors described as an overdosed with anaesthesia. His heart reportedly stopped twice and he slipped into a coma. Medical staff then urged a transfer to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). A referral fee of ₭50,000 was demanded and the parents borrowed the funds to book an ambulance.
The Referral Diversion
Despite clear referral letters naming KNH, the ambulance diverted to Abyan Hospital. Esther Ulavu, the mother, said she asked the driver whether they were headed to KNH. “He said that was the instruction,” she recalled. Nurses reportedly said the same.
Denied Access and Mounting Tensions
Once at Abyan Hospital, the couple say they were denied access to their child. They were allegedly barred from receiving updates unless they paid ₭3 million. In distress, Esther demanded to see her child, leading to abuse from staff. In a video, she asked: “Show me the law that says I cannot see my child without paying money.” Her husband was also reportedly beaten after demanding access.
Hospital and Official Responses
The hospital’s chief executive said Abyan is fully accredited. He referred all questions to the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC).
Loitoktok medical officials distanced themselves, stating they had no control over where the ambulance diverted the patient.
Appeals for Help
With the bill far beyond their means, the couple are calling on the Ministry of Health to step in. They hope the baby can be transferred to KNH and receive proper care with parental support.
Accountability
Medical emergencies in Kenya often hinge on cash availability, even during referrals. This case highlights broader systemic issues in how referrals are handled and how private hospitals manage unpaid bills.
The surgeon in Loitoktok has defended his request for materials, stating such purchases were necessary. The hospital leadership at Abyan insists procedures are within legal frameworks, though they have not provided documentation.
Meanwhile, the infant’s parents remain locked out of decisions affecting their child.
Answers
The Ministry of Health and the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council are yet to respond. A swift inquiry is required for them to investigate; why the ambulance diverted against instructions, whether Abyan Hospital can legally detain a child over unpaid medical fees and how to ensure a transfer to a public facility where parents can be part of care.
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