Kenya Dental Association Calls for KMPDC Chair’s Ouster

Key Takeaways:

• The Kenya Dental Association (KDA) is calling for the resignation of Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) Chairperson Prof Stanley Khainga.
• The protest centers on the contested Scope of Practice for Community Oral Health Officers (COHOs), which KDA claims endangers patient safety.
• KDA alleges that the document promotes dental care by unqualified personnel, risking misdiagnosis and other complications.
• The association demands the withdrawal of the Scope of Practice and the adoption of a 2020 core curriculum for COHOs.
• KDA also advocates for clearer regulations for oral health professionals and improved career pathways for COHOs.

Dental Association Calls for Resignation of KMPDC Chair Over Contested Policy

The Kenya Dental Association (KDA) has escalated its concerns over the publication of a contested Scope of Practice for Community Oral Health Officers (COHOs) by staging a peaceful protest and demanding the resignation of Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) Chairperson Prof Stanley Khainga. According to an article published on Standard Media, the association argues that the document undermines patient safety and contradicts established health laws.

Protest Highlights Risks Posed by Unqualified Personnel

Members of the KDA marched from the University of Nairobi Dental School to the offices of the KMPDC to voice their dissatisfaction. At the heart of their grievances is the belief that the Scope of Practice allows individuals without sufficient foundational training to provide dental care.

“The published document endangers the oral health of patients by encouraging practice without proper qualifications. This undermines quality care and contradicts the Health Act of 2017, which guarantees every person the right to the highest attainable standard of health,” stated the KDA in its official communication.

Community Oral Health Officers, who are diploma holders, are tasked with providing services such as public oral health education, limited clinical care, and fluoride applications. However, the KDA contends that expanding their responsibilities without adequate oversight could lead to severe consequences, including misdiagnosis, worsening oral diseases, and even fatalities due to negligence.

Accusations Against Prof Khainga

The KDA accused Prof Khainga of reneging on a February 27, 2025, commitment to withdraw the contested document. In a letter addressed to the KMPDC, the association reiterated its demand for immediate action, stating that the continued endorsement of the Scope of Practice compromises the council’s mandate to uphold standards in medical and dental practice.

The association is now urging the KMPDC to retract the document and ensure the publication of a core curriculum for COHOs developed in 2020 through a collaborative process involving multiple stakeholders. Additionally, they are calling for a clear Scope of Practice for all oral health professionals, including dental technologists, hygienists, and therapists.

Advocacy for Improved Career Pathways

Beyond addressing the current controversy, the KDA is advocating for systemic changes to enhance the professional growth of COHOs. Among their proposals is the creation of a structured career path that enables COHOs to pursue Bachelor of Dental Surgery degrees. They also recommend the establishment of additional accredited dental schools rather than introducing unrecognized degree programs.

These measures, according to the KDA, would address gaps in training and ensure that oral health professionals are adequately equipped to meet the needs of patients.

Upholding Standards in Dental Practice

The KDA emphasized the KMPDC’s statutory responsibility under the Medical and Dental Practitioners’ Act to maintain quality standards in medical and dental training and practice. By failing to address these concerns, the association accuses the council of neglecting its duty to safeguard public health.

As the debate continues, the KDA remains steadfast in its call for reforms and accountability within the regulatory framework governing oral health professionals in Kenya. Whether the KMPDC will heed these demands remains to be seen, but the association’s actions underscore the critical importance of ensuring that patient safety remains a priority in healthcare policy.