The Ministry of Health (MoH) in Kenya is taking a significant step to enhance the quality of healthcare services across the country by adopting the ISO 7101:2023 standard. This move is part of the government’s broader effort to improve healthcare delivery and align with international best practices, aiming to provide more efficient, reliable, and patient-centered care.
ISO 7101:2023 is the first international consensus standard focused on healthcare quality management. It offers a structured approach to achieving sustainable healthcare excellence by addressing key aspects such as leadership, risk management, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement. The standard’s comprehensive framework aims to ensure that healthcare systems are able to meet the evolving needs of patients and communities, with a focus on long-term effectiveness and responsiveness.
On January 29, 2025, the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Mr. Harry Kimtai, officially inaugurated a workshop on ISO 7101:2023. The workshop brought together a diverse group of healthcare stakeholders, including hospital administrators, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and other key players in the health sector. The event was a pivotal moment in the ongoing process of adopting this new standard, providing a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and planning for the implementation of ISO 7101:2023 across various healthcare facilities in Kenya.
The Ministry of Health plans to roll out the implementation of ISO 7101:2023 in National Referral Hospitals, County Hospitals, and within the Ministry itself, with strong support from the Council of Governors. This collaborative effort will ensure that the standard is effectively integrated into the healthcare system at both the national and regional levels. The adoption of ISO 7101:2023 aligns with Kenya’s ambitious goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), which aims to make quality healthcare accessible and affordable for all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
One of the key objectives of this initiative is to prioritize patient-centered care, ensuring that the needs, preferences, and experiences of patients are at the heart of healthcare delivery. By adopting ISO 7101:2023, the Ministry of Health is setting a new benchmark for quality healthcare in Kenya, where the focus is not only on technical medical procedures but also on creating an environment that fosters trust, satisfaction, and positive health outcomes for patients.
In addition to improving the quality of care, the adoption of the ISO 7101:2023 standard is expected to enhance operational efficiency within healthcare institutions. The standard provides guidelines for managing resources, streamlining workflows, and improving communication and coordination among healthcare teams. By optimizing these internal processes, healthcare facilities can deliver services more efficiently, reduce waiting times, and minimize unnecessary costs, all while maintaining a high level of care.
Another key component of the standard is its emphasis on risk management. Healthcare systems face a variety of risks, including medical errors, disease outbreaks, and system failures. ISO 7101:2023 offers a framework for identifying, assessing, and mitigating these risks, ensuring that healthcare facilities can respond effectively to challenges and maintain the safety and well-being of their patients.
Continuous improvement is another cornerstone of the ISO 7101:2023 standard. Healthcare systems are dynamic, with constant advancements in medical technology, treatment methodologies, and patient expectations. The standard encourages healthcare providers to engage in ongoing learning and innovation, adapting to these changes and continuously refining their practices to maintain the highest standards of care.
The adoption of ISO 7101:2023 in Kenya will not only improve healthcare management but will also enhance the country’s ability to achieve its UHC goals. By strengthening the quality of care, promoting operational efficiency, and ensuring a focus on patient outcomes, the Ministry of Health is laying the groundwork for a more robust and sustainable healthcare system. As the implementation of the standard progresses, Kenya is poised to become a leader in healthcare quality management in the region, setting a positive example for other countries to follow.
