Kenyans might be receiving substandard healthcare services in various facilities nationwide, as it has come to light that over 9,000 of these facilities are unlicensed.
Auditor General Nancy Gathungu’s latest report indicates that many health facilities lack licensing from the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists’ Council (KMPDC).
The audit of the KMPDC database, both for the audit and available on their website, reveals that out of 16,527 registered health facilities in 2023, only 7,518, or 46 percent, were compliant with licensing regulations.
This means around 9,009, or 56 percent, of the health facilities remain unlicensed, raising concerns about the quality of services they provide.
To ensure high-quality medical services, a fully licensed facility must meet all the set requirements, including adequate equipment and medical staff.
The findings are detailed in the latest audit report for KMPDC, covering the period ending June 30, 2023. The report highlights that most of the unlicensed facilities are government dispensaries and hospitals at the national and county levels.
Ironically, national and county-owned health facilities are eligible for free annual licenses under the law. However, many of these facilities have not pursued licensing, violating Section 15(2) of the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act, 2012.
The Act stipulates that if the Council is satisfied that an applicant meets the necessary requirements, it should register the facility as an approved health institution.
The report highlights a lack of evidence showing that government facilities are being urged to comply with these licensing regulations.
The audit also revealed that KMPDC has not settled pending bills totaling Sh5.47 million. This includes Sh53.17 million owed to the Kenya Revenue Authority for PAYE and Sh53.47 million for outstanding goods and services.
“Delays in settling bills distort financial statements and affect budget allocations for the following year, as these become a first charge,” the report notes.
KMPDC is responsible for regulating, training, and licensing healthcare institutions, including private and mission hospitals, medical and dental centers, clinics, maternity homes, and standalone funeral homes.
Previously, the Council has shut down several facilities for not meeting required standards. In March, 80 facilities in Kajiado County were closed due to licensing noncompliance.
“Some of these facilities were below required standards, unregistered or unlicensed, and employed unregistered or unlicensed personnel,” stated KMPDC Chief Executive Officer David Kariuki.
In 2023, the Council also closed 75 facilities in Narok and 60 in Nakuru, and earlier shut down 46 facilities in Mombasa County for operating unlawfully.
“KMPDC, in collaboration with the County Government of Narok and the DCI, inspected health facilities in Narok County from November 6 to November 10, 2023,” the Council reported.
Kariuki added that out of 1,305 facilities inspected in Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Meru, and Embu, 260 were closed for failing to comply with regulations.
