How to Change Hospital in NHIF
If you want to change hospital in NHIF (for outpatient services), this guide shows the exact steps using USSD, app or self-care portal.
Quick Answer — At a Glance
Dial *155# → enter your ID → choose “Change Out-patient Facility.”
Or log in to the NHIF “My NHIF” app, go to “Other Services” → “Change Outpatient Facility.”
Or access NHIF Self-Care portal online → verify using OTP → select new hospital.
Confirm change; you’ll receive notification when successful.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Hospital / Outpatient Facility
Ensure your mobile number is updated in NHIF records
If your phone number is not registered or outdated, you’ll not receive OTPs required for these changes.
To update, visit an NHIF office, use customer care toll-free line 0800 720 601, or email customercare@nhif.or.ke. NHIF+1
*Using USSD (155#)
Dial *155# on your mobile phone. JITIMU+1
Choose your language (English/Kiswahili).
Enter your national ID.
OTP is sent to your registered number; enter it to verify.
Select “Choose Out-Patient Facility” or “Change Out-Patient Facility.”
Search for and select your preferred hospital/facility (for yourself and/or dependents).
Via NHIF App (“My NHIF” / Self-Care App)
Download or open the NHIF Self-Care / My NHIF app from Play Store or App Store. JITIMU+1
Login with your ID and request OTP.
Navigate to “Other Services” → “Change Outpatient Facility” (or similar).
Select the hospital/clinic of your choice and confirm.
Using the Online Self-Care Portal
Visit the NHIF Self-Care portal on NHIF’s official website. Education News Hub+1
Enter your ID number, verify via OTP.
Access the section for your facility choice.
From the list of contracted hospitals/facilities, pick the one you prefer.
Waiting for Activation / Effective Date
Changes are processed immediately or within a short period, depending on NHIF policy.
Note: there may be specific periods or windows for changes, especially under certain NHIF schemes (e.g. quarterly changes). JITIMU+1
Important Notes & Tips
You can only select/change your out-patient facility; inpatient services are available at any NHIF-accredited hospital. NHIF
NHIF has windows (quarters) during which facility changes are allowed; sometimes there are deadlines. JITIMU+1
Ensure the hospital/facility you choose is accredited by NHIF and within your county (or easily accessible).
Keep proof of change (notification or screenshot) in case there are issues when accessing services.
FAQs
Q: Can I change hospital any time I want?
A: Yes, but outpatient facility changes are restricted to certain periods (e.g. quarterly) under some NHIF schemes.
Q: Do I have to visit an NHIF office to change hospital?
A: No, you can do it via USSD (*155#), via the NHIF app, or the Self-Care portal — no need to physically visit unless your mobile number is not updated or there are other issues.
Q: Will the new hospital be active immediately?
A: Usually once you confirm change and it’s processed, but it depends on when the change window is and the NHIF policy.
Q: Can I change for my dependents too?
A: Yes — during the facility change process, you’ll have options to change hospital for any dependents linked to your NHIF membership.
Q: What if the hospital I want doesn’t show up in the list?
A: That means it likely isn’t NHIF-accredited for outpatient services. You can check the NHIF contracted facility list or contact NHIF customer service.
