KMPDC Issues Fresh Notice to Health Facilities Over Major Invasive Procedures

The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has issued a new warning to healthcare facilities and providers regarding the conduct of significant invasive procedures by unlicensed staff. On Tuesday, KMPDC Chief Executive Dr. David Kariuki cautioned health institutions that only registered and licensed medical and dental professionals are permitted to perform such procedures.

These practitioners must adhere to their registered scope and maintain a valid practicing licence. Kariuki emphasized this directive to safeguard patients, uphold healthcare standards, and ensure accountability. He cautioned that letting unqualified individuals perform major invasive procedures endangers patients, tarnishes professional standards, and constitutes a violation under Cap.

253 and other health laws. KMPDC has instructed health facility managers and administrators not to allow, schedule, or advertise major invasive procedures without a registered and licensed KMPDC practitioner responsible for the procedure and patient care. The Council stated that facilities enabling the misuse of practitioners' credentials would be deemed negligent in their duty of care and might face penalties, including license suspension or cancellation, under Cap.

253 and relevant regulations. KMPDC also cautioned medical and dental practitioners against sharing their credentials, such as registration numbers, practising licences, professional stamps, and signatures, to prevent others from performing procedures under their names. Practitioners who permit credential misuse could be held personally responsible for resulting harm, potential professional misconduct, or fraud, and may face disciplinary actions by the Council, including registration or licence cancellation.