KMPDC Takes Action Against Rising Online Medical Fraud

Rising Concern Over Unqualified Medical Practitioners

The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has identified an emerging public health threat in the form of unqualified individuals masquerading as medical professionals on online platforms, according to a recent report from Citizen Digital. These unauthorized practitioners have been providing medical advice without proper qualifications, leading to documented cases of misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.

Official Warning and Legal Framework

Dr. David G. Kariuki, CEO of KMPDC, issued a stern warning about these fraudulent practices, stating, “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.”

The legal implications are significant, as outlined in Section 22(3) of the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act CAP 253. The law explicitly prohibits the unauthorized use of the title “doctor” without proper registration or licensing as a medical practitioner or dentist. Violations can result in substantial penalties, including a KES 5 million fine, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.

Verification System Implementation

To address this issue, KMPDC has established a comprehensive verification system for the public. Citizens can now verify the credentials of medical practitioners and health facilities through two main channels:

1. The KMPDC official website’s online register
2. SMS verification service at 20547, using specific formats for practitioners and facilities

Public Health Protection Measures

Dr. Kariuki concluded the announcement with a call for collective action, emphasizing, “Together, we can safeguard the integrity of the medical profession and ensure the safety of all Kenyans.” The Council has specifically reached out to media outlets, encouraging them to utilize these verification resources to prevent the spread of medical misinformation.

Enforcement and Penalties

The report highlights that Section 22(2) of CAP 253 specifically criminalizes unauthorized use of medical titles and false claims of providing medical or dental services. These violations carry the same severe penalties as other infractions under the act, demonstrating KMPDC’s commitment to maintaining professional standards in healthcare delivery.