The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has issued a stern warning to health professionals and institutions, reiterating that practicing medicine without a valid license is a criminal offence. In a public notice, the Council outlined severe penalties for individuals and facilities that flout registration and licensing requirements.
According to the KMPDC, any individual found practicing as a medical or dental practitioner without proper registration and licensing faces a fine of up to Sh5 million, up to five years in jail, or both. The Council emphasized that this also applies to community oral health practitioners.
Facility owners and administrators who employ unlicensed personnel are also at risk. The Council stated that such individuals could face penalties of up to Sh10 million, five years’ imprisonment, or both. “Any person in charge of a health institution who employs or engages an unregistered or unlicensed practitioner commits an offence,” the statement read.
Foreign practitioners have also been put on notice. KMPDC clarified that foreign medical personnel may only work in locations specified in their licenses and must be registered with the Council before undertaking any work or studies, including postgraduate training. Health facilities are required to notify KMPDC before engaging foreign practitioners.
KMPDC CEO Dr. David G. Kariuki highlighted the Council’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding patient safety and upholding public trust. He warned that non-compliance not only violates the law but also puts lives at risk. “Non-compliance with these regulations undermines public trust and endangers lives,” he said.
The Council is currently conducting countrywide inspections and audits, including a focused review of foreign practitioners, to ensure compliance. Institutions have been directed to immediately report any unlicensed or unregistered medical personnel currently in service.
The directive underscores the Council’s resolve to tighten regulatory enforcement and protect patients from unqualified individuals. The public is urged to verify the licensing status of their healthcare providers through KMPDC’s official channels.
