The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) and the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS) have raised concerns over the increasing calls to allow untrained healthcare workers to perform complex surgical procedures, particularly Caesarean sections. These professional bodies are urging the government and relevant authorities to enforce stricter regulations to ensure that only qualified professionals handle such high-risk surgeries.
In a joint statement, KMA and KOGS emphasized that obstetric and gynecological surgeries require extensive training, continuous competency assessments, and strict adherence to globally accepted medical and surgical safety standards. They cautioned that allowing unqualified healthcare workers to conduct such procedures poses a severe threat to the lives of mothers and newborns.
“Surgery, especially obstetric and gynecologic surgery, requires highly specialized training, rigorous and continuous competency assessments, and strict adherence to globally accepted medical and surgical safety standards,” the statement read.
The organizations acknowledged the crucial role that all healthcare providers play in Kenya’s healthcare system but insisted that performing surgeries without the necessary expertise is dangerous.
KMA and KOGS expressed concerns over the push for clinical officers and other allied health workers to conduct surgical procedures without the requisite qualifications. They warned that this practice could lead to increased maternal and neonatal complications, ultimately reversing the progress made in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in the country.
“The independent performance of such procedures by cadres without the requisite surgical training, accreditation, and oversight directly endangers the lives of mothers and newborns,” the organizations stated.
According to Kenya’s medical laws and regulatory frameworks, different medical cadres have clearly defined scopes of practice. Any expansion of their roles should be based on solid evidence, rigorous training, and proper regulatory structures, rather than being influenced by political pressure or workforce shortages.
KMA and KOGS urged the Ministry of Health, Parliament, and other stakeholders to ensure that any modifications to healthcare practices are evidence-based and prioritize patient safety. They highlighted the importance of maintaining strict oversight to guarantee that only trained professionals perform high-risk surgical procedures.
“We urge the Ministry of Health and policymakers to remain steadfast in upholding the principles of safe, high-quality, and patient-centered care for all Kenyans,” the statement continued.
To address the shortage of qualified surgical professionals, the organizations recommended increased investments in surgical training programs. They argued that instead of expanding the scope of untrained personnel, the government should facilitate more opportunities for clinical officers and other healthcare workers to pursue formal medical education in surgery.
“Any proposed changes in medical practice must involve substantive engagement with professional bodies, medical regulatory authorities, and the wider healthcare community,” the organizations added.
Despite advancements in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality in Kenya, KMA and KOGS stressed that any compromise on surgical safety could lead to disastrous consequences. They emphasized that patient safety must remain a top priority and that all surgical procedures should only be conducted by qualified and accredited professionals.
Their call for stronger regulations aligns with global best practices, where high-risk surgeries are performed exclusively by individuals with specialized medical training. As Kenya continues to enhance its healthcare system, ensuring proper oversight and adherence to medical standards will be essential in safeguarding patient outcomes.
In conclusion, KMA and KOGS are advocating for well-regulated surgical practices that uphold high medical standards and ensure the safety of patients. By prioritizing training, accreditation, and oversight, Kenya can continue making progress in maternal and newborn healthcare without compromising the quality of surgical procedures.
