The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the alarming increase in online platforms where unqualified individuals pose as medical professionals. These fraudulent actors are offering false medical advice, leading to severe consequences such as misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, and worsening health conditions.
Dr. David G. Kariuki, the CEO of KMPDC, highlighted the serious dangers posed by these unlicensed practitioners. “These so-called ‘doctors’ are not only misleading the public but also putting lives at risk by offering unqualified medical advice. This is a serious violation of the law and a direct threat to the well-being of Kenyans,” he stated.
The council has reiterated that, according to Section 22 (3) of the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act CAP 253, it is illegal for any individual to use the title “doctor” unless they are officially registered or licensed as a medical practitioner or dentist, or if they hold a legitimate doctoral qualification. Any individual found guilty of violating this law faces harsh penalties, including a fine of up to KES 5 million, a prison sentence of up to five years, or both.
Additionally, Section 22 (2) of CAP 253 criminalizes the unauthorized use of medical or dental titles and false claims of offering professional healthcare services. The penalties for these offenses remain equally severe.
To address the rising cases of medical fraud, KMPDC has urged the public to verify the legitimacy of any medical practitioner or health facility before seeking services. The council provides free verification services through its online register, accessible on the KMPDC website, or via SMS to 20547 in the following format:
- To verify a doctor: Send P#Full Name of Practitioner or P#Registration Number.
- To verify a health facility: Send H#Full Name of Facility or H#Registration Number.
KMPDC has also encouraged journalists and media outlets to utilize these resources to ensure accurate reporting and prevent the spread of misinformation related to medical services.
Dr. Kariuki reaffirmed KMPDC’s commitment to protecting public health and ensuring the integrity of the medical profession. He urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or online platforms falsely claiming to provide medical services.
“Together, we can safeguard the integrity of the medical profession and ensure the safety of all Kenyans,” he emphasized.
As medical fraud continues to rise, KMPDC remains dedicated to enforcing regulations and taking strict action against individuals who attempt to deceive the public. The council’s proactive measures aim to ensure that all Kenyans receive safe and qualified medical care from certified professional.
