By Dorothy Musyoka
The Ministry of Health has taken a major step towards strengthening healthcare services across the country by adopting ISO 7101:2023, the first international consensus standard for healthcare quality management.
According to the ministry, the ISO is set to enhance healthcare service delivery, ensuring a systematic approach to excellence that prioritizes patient-centered care, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement.
“The Ministry of Health is adopting ISO 7101:2023, the first international consensus standard for healthcare quality management, to strengthen healthcare services across the country,” stated MOH.
Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Mr. Harry Kimtai, officially opened a workshop on ISO 7101:2023, bringing together healthcare stakeholders to discuss its implementation.
The standard provides a structured framework focusing on leadership, risk management, and sustainable healthcare operations, reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The ministry noted that the implementation of ISO 7101:2023 will begin at National Referral Hospitals, County Hospitals, and within the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Council of Governors.
By embedding this standard into healthcare institutions, Kenya aims to improve service quality, ensure value for money in healthcare spending, and set a new benchmark for excellence in healthcare management.
“The adoption of ISO 7101:2023 is expected to improve healthcare management and service delivery, setting a new benchmark for quality healthcare in Kenya,” added MOH.
The adoption of ISO 7101:2023 aligns with Kenya’s strategic goal of achieving UHC by enhancing healthcare governance, efficiency, and patient outcomes.