By Grace Gilo
In a significant move to enhance patient safety and ensure quality healthcare delivery, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), in partnership with various health regulatory bodies and county governments, has intensified its nationwide inspection of health facilities.
This initiative is aimed at enforcing the Inspections and Licensing Rules, 2022, which seek to deter unethical practices and ensure that medical providers meet required standards.ivery.
In a statement issued by KMPDC CEO, Dr. David Kariuki, the council noted that the most recent inspection, covering 288 health facilities in Nairobi, resulted in the closure of 158 facilities, the downgrading of 25, and the maintenance of 105 at their current level.
Dr. Kariuki highlighted that many of the shut down or downgraded facilities were found to be either unregistered or unlicensed, employed unqualified practitioners, or operated below the mandated standards.
Key issues identified during the inspections included the absence of critical infrastructure such as pharmacies, maternity wings, and laboratories, as well as sanitation problems and inadequate waste disposal systems, which pose a direct threat to patient health.
These inspections are guided by The Inspections and Licensing Rules, 2022, developed under the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act (CAP 253).
“The rules, provide a robust framework for regulating healthcare facilities and ensuring compliance with ethical and professional standards,” read the statement.
These rules mandate regular inspections and annual license renewals, giving the Council the authority to suspend or revoke licenses of non-compliant facilities and practitioners.
The council emphasized that these regulations not only enforce order but also promote accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement in healthcare delivery.
By ensuring that only licensed, well-equipped, and professionally staffed facilities operate in the country, KMPDC aims to mitigate the risks associated with medical errors, malpractice, and unsafe treatment environments.
To guide the public, KMPDC plans to publish the names of all closed health facilities, encouraging patients to seek care exclusively from compliant institutions.
This information has also been shared with relevant authorities, including the National Government Administration Office, County Governments, the Social Health Authority, the Digital Health Authority, and other health regulatory bodies to ensure ongoing compliance.
“Our primary duty is to protect patients. We will continue to enforce these regulations firmly and fairly, so that every Kenyan receives the quality healthcare they deserve,” CEO David reiterated.