Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has broken its silence following the death of a woman who underwent a surgical procedure in a city medical centre.
In a statement on Saturday, November 1, 2024, KMPDC said it had already launched an investigation against the medical facility.
“The council’s attention was drawn to an unfortunate incident involving the tragic passing of a patient after a surgical procedure. We are deeply saddened by this loss and our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones during this difficult time. We want to assure the public that we take any incident that may result in patient harm with the utmost seriousness,” KMPDC stated.
:Consequently, the Council has launched a thorough investigation into the matter, with an initial assessment already underway to gather all relevant information regarding this incident from the healthcare providers involved. We are also working with other relevant authorities to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this incident.”
KMPDC has also urged the public to always verify the registration and licensure status of medical and dental practitioners, community oral health officers, and health facilities in the country before seeking treatment.
“Patient safety is our top priority. We are dedicated to ensuring that our healthcare system upholds the highest standards of care. Checking can be done by using our toll-free SMS service: for Medical/Dental practitioners, send an SMS as follows: P#name of doctor/dentist to 20547; for health facilities, send an SMS as follows: H#name of hospital/health facility to 20547. This step ensures that patients receive care from authorized and licensed practitioners and facilities who can be held accountable in the event of any concerns,” KMPDC added.
Govt position
This comes moments after the Ministry of Health announced the closure of Ominicare Medical Limited, the medical centre involved in a surgical procedure of the late Lucy Wambui.
In a statement on Saturday, November 2, 2024, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said the centre was found to be in serious non-compliance with medical institution regulations.
“Following a tragic incident that led to the death of Ms Lucy Wambui who passed away after a plastic surgery procedure at Ominicare Medical Limited, operating as “Body by Design” in Nairobi, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) conducted a comprehensive investigation into the facility’s practices and standards,” Muthoni said.
“The findings revealed serious non-compliance with medical institution regulations, specifically under Sections 4 and 15 of the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act (Cap 253).”
According to the PS, the inspection by KMPDC found that the facility was operating below the required medical standards, failing to meet patient safety regulations crucial for protecting the health and well-being of patients.
