In a decisive move to safeguard patient welfare and restore confidence in Kenya’s healthcare system, the Ministry of Health has launched an ambitious plan to eliminate unqualified medical practitioners from both public and private facilities.

Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga announced that the Ministry has started digitising all health workers across the country. This digital registry will verify the credentials of medical personnel and ensure that only certified professionals treat patients.

Speaking at Kijabe Hospital in Kiambu County during its 110th anniversary celebration, Dr. Oluga outlined the Ministry’s broader vision to reform healthcare delivery. “We’re committed to building a transparent, accountable, and competent health workforce. Patient safety must come first,” he said.

This digitisation initiative is expected to significantly reduce cases of medical malpractice and misdiagnosis caused by imposters, while restoring public trust in the healthcare system.

Beyond weeding out unqualified practitioners, the Ministry is also investing heavily in capacity building. Training programs are being scaled up to equip healthcare workers with emerging medical knowledge and skills aligned with global standards. This will not only enhance the quality of care but also future-proof the health sector against evolving diseases and emergencies.

Dr. Oluga praised the role of private hospitals in promoting Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and urged Kenyans to enrol in the new Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme by dialling *147#. The SHA program is designed to make healthcare more accessible and affordable to all citizens.

“These reforms are not just about systems they’re about people. Together, we can build a healthcare sector that is safe, inclusive, and truly national in scope,” Dr. Oluga added.

By rooting out fake practitioners, strengthening training, and expanding health coverage, the Ministry’s reforms mark a crucial step toward a healthier, safer, and more resilient Kenya.