The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has gazetted the suspension and closure of hundreds of health facilities for non-compliance with set standards.
A notice dated August 29 lists 454 facilities from across the country that were found operating without proper registration or licensing, in accordance with Section 15(11) and Section 22(5) of the law.
KMPDC Chief Executive Officer/Registrar Dr David Kariuki has consequently urged the public to be vigilant and seek services only from licensed and compliant health facilities.
“As earlier communicated, in compliance with relevant sections of its enabling laws, KMPDC has gazetted suspension and closure of the following health facilities for non-compliance with set standards. We urge the public to be vigilant and seek services only from licensed and compliant health facilities”, he said.
Inspection rules
The council continues with the nationwide inspections that are guided by the Inspections and Licensing Rules, 2022, developed under the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act (CAP 253).
The rules essentially provide a robust framework for regulating healthcare facilities and ensuring compliance with ethical and professional standards. They further mandate regular inspections and annual license renewals, empowering KMPDC to suspend or revoke licenses of non-compliant facilities and practitioners.
KMPDC emphasises that the regulations are not only meant to enforce order but also to promote accountability, transparency and continuous improvement in healthcare delivery.
“By ensuring that only licensed, well-equipped and professionally staffed facilities operate in the country, the Council is working to reduce the risk of medical errors, malpractice and unsafe treatment environments”, Dr Kariuki says.
The information on closed health facilities has been shared with relevant authorities, including the National Government Administration Office, County Governments, Social Health Authority, Digital Health Authority and health regulatory bodies to ensure continued 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,” He added.
